Arthritis pain is a significant concern among the elderly population in America, as revealed by a recent study conducted by Stanford University Medical Center. The study found that 32% of seniors identified arthritis as the primary source of their discomfort.
Arthritis is a broad term that encompasses over 100 different medical conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. The three most prevalent types are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. These conditions cause inflammation in the joints, tendons, and ligaments and can manifest anywhere in the body, ranging from mild joint stiffness to debilitating disability.
The experience of arthritis pain varies among individuals. Some people experience the most severe pain upon waking up, while others report that their condition worsens throughout the day. The exact cause of arthritis remains unknown, but it is one of the oldest known human afflictions.
The type and severity of arthritis determine the course of treatment. While there is no cure for arthritis, various traditional and alternative treatments can provide relief from arthritis pain.
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are commonly used to manage arthritis pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often recommended for osteoarthritis patients with little or mild inflammation, while aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are more effective for patients with inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis.
Alternative therapies such as massage, acupuncture, relaxation, yoga, and even emu oil have proven effective for many arthritis sufferers. Massage can stimulate blood flow, bringing warmth and relief to stiff joints.
Heat and cold therapies can also help alleviate pain. However, the type of heat (moist or dry) or cold treatment should be discussed with a doctor or physical therapist. Doctors often recommend patients wear splints or braces to relieve joint pressure and protect them from further injury.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is another technique that works by blocking nerve endings from sending pain messages to the brain. A small TENS device sends mild electrical pulses to the nerve endings of the painful area, which seem to ‘scramble’ their message to the brain.
Medications are often the go-to for long-term arthritis pain relief and include several families of prescription drugs. Weight reduction, exercise, and stretching can significantly reduce stress on joints.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. The operation may involve realigning the joint or replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one. Total joint replacement has resulted in significant arthritis pain relief and improved range of motion for many patients.
Establishing a healthy lifestyle is often the most challenging but effective pain reliever. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and daily exercise can all help ease the pain of chronic arthritis. Support groups, a good physician, and staying informed about arthritis treatment can also benefit patients suffering from arthritis.
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