Category: Arthritis

Is instant relief from Arthritis pain and Inflammation possible?

As we well know, there are over one hundred different types of arthritis. Despite the different causes and symptoms they all have, one thing is common and that is pain. All arthritis patients suffer pain in varying degrees. For some, it comes and goes. For others it’s constant. You want relief and you want it now, but is instant arthritis pain relief possible? The answer is, yes and no.

Before focusing on a few ways that you can get quick arthritis pain relief, it is important to note variances. It all depends on your definition of instant. For most, instant means right away and immediately, because when you are in pain, 15 minutes can literally feel like a lifetime. For others, 10 to 15 minutes is soon enough.

As we discussed in a previous issue, in terms of over-the-counter arthritis relief, you have two main options. Those are over-the-counter pain pills and over-the-counter topical arthritis creams. So, which provides you with the fastest relief? It all depends on your body.

Most pain relief capsules or tablets have to dissolve in your body to start working. It can take time for the entire pill to dissolve, which means they take a little longer to be effective. On the other hand, Advil has a Liquid-Gel capsules where just the outer layer needs to dissolve, so relief is typically faster. Tylenol has a special arthritis formula that has two dissolving layers; one is fast for quick relief and the second is slower for long-lasting relief.

When it topical creams, most see relief right away. In fact, you may experience relief as soon as the cream makes contact with the skin. Even if you have never used these creams before, you may have used Bengay or a similar cream to treat achy pains.

Another way to get almost instant pain relief is through heat. Your options include soaking in a warm bath, wrapping the joint in a warm washcloth, using on-the-go heating patches or a reusable heating pouch. Many experience pain relief until the heat stops. It is best to use heat as a source of relief until your over-the-counter pain pills are able to kick in.

Many natural supplements also claim to add in the relief of arthritis pain and swelling. These supplements are nice, as most are natural and safe. However, they do have their pros and cons. The biggest downside is that most aren’t designed for immediate relief. They require, continued use to provide long-lasting relief.

The same is true for exercise. It may be difficult to move your achy joints at first, but continued low-impact exercise can reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling overtime. Remember that preventing or lessening the risk of pain, discomfort, and swelling is just as important as treating it.

Make sure you look for your next issue soon. We will be talking about some ways you can manage and prevent arthritis pain and inflammation.

How to choose the right supplement for Arthritis

arthritisIf you suffer from arthritis, chances are you look high and low for relief. It can be a constant struggle of trial and error trying to find an effective treatment. Did you know that certain herbal, dietary, and natural supplements could help relieve arthritis pain and discomfort?

Some not only reduce pain and discomfort, but swelling too. If this is new to you, you may want to run out and purchase a bottle of supplements, but wait! If this is your first time buying these supplements, you must first know some important things.

Not all supplements aid in arthritis relief. There are wide ranges of dietary, herbal, and natural supplements available for sale, both locally and online. Make sure you do your research first to determine what supplements may reduce your joint pain and swelling.

For instance, Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) is believed to slow down the making of inflammation causing chemicals. Devil’s Claw can reduce inflammation and pain in arthritis patients. These are just a sample of the supplements that can help. Before heading to the health store, know what to buy.

When researching supplements or when browsing at the store, read all packages. Most will outright state what the product can do. For example, capsules of Devil’s Claw may state they assist with the reduction of arthritis pain and swelling.

While arthritis has no permanent cure, you can learn to manage and temporarily treat the joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with it. When shopping for supplements be sure to avoid any product that claims it will cure your arthritis. This is an outright lie and usually a waste of money.

Herbal, natural, and dietary supplements are not like over-the-counter pain relievers. They rarely provide you with immediate relief. To see results they must be taken consistently overtime. Most reduce the likelihood of pain and inflammation, especially with regular and continued use.

Unfortunately, this means you may have to purchase and try many supplements. To prevent the costs from becoming too high, price compare. Find a quality, yet economical brand. Buy your supplements on sale, buy in bulk, use coupons, or shop at a store with good prices. Always compare price with quantity. A larger package of supplement capsules will cost more money, but it is usually a better value for that money.

– Doctor recommendations

Most arthritis patients fear discussing supplements with their physician. Most believe they will only hear discouragement. Not all physicians believe in or recommend the use of supplements, but don’t be afraid to discuss this with your doctor. Many now embrace supplements, when used with prescribed or recommended medicine. So, tell your doctor you want to try ASU to reduce your joint swelling, but that you will continue to take your over-the-counter pain relievers for pain, as directed.

– Drug interactions
Why is it important to speak with your physician about supplements? Some can interact with common medications. For example, the Devil’s Claw mentioned above can counteract with diabetes medication, acid reducers, and blood thinners. Ask your doctor if the supplement you intend to take is risky with your current medications.

– Side effects

Most supplements come directly from nature, but not all things in nature are safe for all. Some supplements can have side effects. For instance, Gingko can reduce disease flare-ups for some. However, it does have many side effects. These include headaches, upset stomachs, and dizziness. Always be sure to look at the side effects for your preferred supplement before you begin taking them.

Many natural supplements can provide you with arthritis relief. Nevertheless, don’t run out and buy the first supplement you see at the health store. Opt for a supplement that will not interact with your current medications, one that is affordable, one that has little to no side effects, and one that will treat your troubling arthritis symptoms.

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