Chronic Pain: Arthritis, Hip and Back Pain Relief
Creaky joints and stiff fingers can be symptoms of arthritis. Once thought of as a disease of the aging, several forms of arthritis exist today and affect millions of people under the age of 50. Arthritis can be tested for via x-rays and blood work, but many arthritis sufferers will show no physical signs of arthritis for many years though patients' stated symptoms are consistent with the disease. Along with the physical changes that inevitably accompany arthritis, the disease also causes chronic pain and it is this symptom that is the most problematic.
Arthritis, hip and back pain relief are desired by many chronic pain sufferers. Pain in the major ball joints such as the hips and along the spine, which supports the body, can affect not only overall physical functioning, but can also negatively impact mood and overall quality of life. Managing chronic pain and finding methods of arthritis, hip and back pain relief are the subjects of this article.
Is There a Cure for Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain may last a lifetime. Because of this, it is crucial that chronic pain sufferers find effective, ongoing treatment techniques. There is no cure for chronic pain though various over the counter and prescription medications can ease pain and some arthritis medications promise to help stop damage to joints. To date, there is no way to regenerate the cartilage, tissue, and bone lost through rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The only way to achieve arthritis, hip and back pain relief is to see a pain management specialist and/or rheumatologist.
Best Methods of Arthritis, Hip and Back Pain Relief
To obtain arthritis, hip and back pain relief, there are several simple methods you should use in conjunction with getting proper tests, blood work, and evaluations from your doctor. Use of heating pads, medications, exercise, creams, and Eastern treatment methods can provide ongoing relief. To treat sore muscles and joints, rotate heat and ice for 20 minute intervals.
Non-prescription medications like Tylenol, aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, and Advil can reduce pain and/or swelling. Prescription pain relievers and muscle relaxants like Vicodin and Tylenol with codeine can help manage chronic pain but can be habit-forming so use as directed. Corticosteroids like prednisone can reduce swelling.
Topical creams like capsaicin cream block pain receptors. Aspirin-based creams can be rubbed into sore muscles to ease pain. A Lidocaine patch also can numb pain.
Yoga, stretching exercises, and strengthening exercise taught through physical therapy can make the body more resilient to pain. Exercise also aids in stress management. Acupuncture, massage, mediation, and tai chi can help pain sufferers manage pain.
