Arthritis #2 – Easing Arthritis Pain
The pain suffered by those with arthritis can be debilitating. Let us look some noninvasive methods for treating arthritis pain.
Dr. Vijay Vad, M.D.
Hospital for Special Surgery
Official PGA & Pro-Tennis Tour Doctor
There is no cure for the chronic pain that is a characteristic of our arthritis but there is good news for the 30% of Americans who suffer from the disease. There are a number of treatments available that can help to minimize joint discomfort immediately. A simple way to relieve chronic arthritis pain is over-the-counter medications. Some commonly available OTCs for pain include aspirin, Advil, Tylenol, and Aleve, because ibuprophen the active ingredient in Advil combines pain reliever with anti inflammatory action, it maybe the preferred choice for arthritis pain. Your best bet is liquid gel capsules which absorbs more readily into the blood stream. Another great way to sooth aching joints is to apply liniments like Tiger Balm or Bengay to painful areas. If you can, have someone else apply the cream for you. A gentle rub down can be soothing as well. Many people who suffer from arthritis pain find that a heat and ice treatment works wonders.
To try this therapy at home, begin by applying ice to a new pain or recent injury. Get the maximum benefit from ice by applying it to painful areas two or three times a day for 15 minutes at a time. Repeat this treatment for 24 hours always removing ice after 15 minutes as it reaches its maximum efficacy at that point. Unlike ice, warmth can continue to provide benefit over time. After 24 hours of ice treatments, apply moist heat to an injury either in a shower or with a heating pad for up to 30 minutes. After 48 hours begin using heat and ice in sequence. As the general rule, apply heat in the morning and before physical activity. Switch to ice in the evening and after exercise.
A great natural way to dull arthritis pain is by focusing on breathing in a slow controlled rhythm. Start by inhaling deeply through your nose, holding your breath for three counts. Exhale fully by contracting your stomach. Continue breathing this way for at least three minutes. It may seem simple but proper breathing can provide fast, effective, pain relief that is because controlled breath shift the minds attention away from pain and the body’s response to it.
You can increase the benefits of your breathing exercises by engaging in visual imagery. Try imagining your breath as a way of healing light. Envisioned the life flowing into your head and down to your spine and then outward the rest of your body. This technique will calm you and help you focus on healing.
Although there is currently no cure for arthritis, these tips can make a world of difference in the chronic pain caused by the disease.
For information on making the healthy changes that can lead to a pain free life check out my book, “Arthritis Rx.”
Want to learn more, check out other videos and sources on this site for more information.
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