Medical Treatment

Medical treatment is always the first option when treating joint disease. A number of medications can relieve joint pain — and a new group called COX-2 inhibitors, or "superaspirins," do so without the gastrointestinal side effects of traditional anti-inflammatory drugs. Talk to your doctor about these new medications, which are available only by prescription.

Other new medical treatments, including injections into the joint, are also available and have proved successful in relieving pain for some patients. Some alternative therapies are also available.

Complementary Therapies

Studies have shown that some naturally occurring substances can provide relief from arthritis pain and disability. Widespread studies have not yet been performed on these substances and patients should consult with their physicians on any arthritis treatment program.
• Hyaluronic acid is derived from a natural substance that lubricates joints. This treatment is administered by injection into the joint.

• Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate have been proven to provide some pain relief in several small studies. A larger study is now underway in the US. These substances are found in fluid surrounding the knee. Consult first with your physician before taking these since the substances are unregulated and quality and doses may vary with different products.

• Capsaicin is a component of hot red peppers and has been show to bring pain relief for arthritis sufferers when used as a skin cream. Pain relief usually begins within one to two weeks of using the cream.

• Pain Therapies such as acupunture, deep massage or hypnosis may provide some relief.

Want to learn more about complementary therapies at Southcoast?

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