Arthritis a widespread ailment that affects a huge portion of the population to varying degrees. Arthritis medication, exercise, physical therapy, hot and cold therapy, and surgery are all components of treatment that can be implemented to diminish the severity of symptoms.
The goals of treatment include stopping inflammation, relieving symptoms such as pain, preventing joint and organ damage, improving physical function and overall well-being, and reducing long-term complications. Doctors implement a number of strategies to reach these goals. Arthritis medication is only a small component of this, but it is a big one.

Common Arthritis Medication

There are different drugs used to treat or alleve the symptoms of arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available both over the counter and as a prescription and are used to ease pain and inflammation. Drugs included in this category are ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen. These medications can be taken orally or applied onto the skin over the affected joint.

Corticosteroids include prednisone and methylprednisolone and are arthritis medications designed to slow down the activity of the disease. They are strong anti-inflammatory medications that are used to get severe inflammation under control while slower-acting drugs have a chance to kick in. There is a higher chance of side-effects with this medicine, so doctors like to prescribe the smallest dose possible for as little time as possible.

Alternative Treatments to Aid Arthritis Medication

Medication is a great tool and huge part of helping control arthritis. In addition to arthritis medication, there are many holistic therapies that can be applied to help the medication work most efficiently. Hot and cold treatments of the affected joint are recommended regularly.
Proper exercise is important to keep the joint moving, but it is a good idea to speak with a doctor or physical therapist about the kind of exercise that is best for your arthritis. Yoga, swimming, and walking and three examples of exercises that could be helpful. As always, listen to your body and if something doesn’t feel right, stop doing it.

Professional therapies like massage and electrical stimulation can be done to further assist the process of relieving arthritis. Certain vitamins and minerals can help too, but always check with your doctor about drug interactions before you start taking anything new. Other things you can explore include acupuncture, tai chi, meditation, weight loss to ease stress on your joints,