$Unique_ID{BRK01126}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is There Some Other Way to Treat Arthritis Than Taking Pills?}
$Subject{arthritis treatment treatments medication medications Musculoskeletal
Connective Tissue tissues autoimmune analgesic aspirin NSAIDS acetaminophen}
$Volume{R-17,U-17,M-17}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There Some Other Way to Treat Arthritis Than Taking Pills?


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QUESTION:  Some time ago you wrote in a caring manner to a woman who didn't
take her pills though her doctor had prescribed them.  Now I wonder if you
have some similar words of advice for those of us who have arthritis.  I was
diagnosed recently and now have to take pills for the rest of my life!  I have
talked to others who hate to take pills everyday.  Is there some other way
you might suggest?

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ANSWER:  I would be happy to describe some alternative measures that I know
can help you and others with similar problems.  Most important of all is the
proper blend of rest and activity, enough activity to keep your joints moving
and flexible and enough rest to allow painful joints (as well as tendons and
muscles) to recuperate from their efforts.  Sometimes an aid to walking, such
as cane or walkers, provide just enough assistance to joints that are
overstressed to reduce the pain level considerably.  Some times a splint or
brace may be required, but that's for you and your doctor to decide.  Exercise
is a wonderful help, particularly when it can be accomplished in the
supportive environment of a pleasantly heated pool.  Check around at local
facilities for such classes, they are more and more available.  Heat as well
as gentle massage can do wonders for an aching joint and painful muscles.
While any heating device is helpful, moist heat is a bit better than just a
hot water bottle, and moist heating pads, hot soaks, or just a session in a
hot tub can do much to reduce the pain.  Careful, though; check the
temperatures carefully first to avoid burns, a not infrequent complication of
over zealous use of heat.  But don't cast aside all the help that medications
can provide when used properly.  There is no shame in the regular and
appropriate use of an analgesic, nor will you become a "junkie" from taking
oral medication such as aspirin, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
such as ibuprofen and many others) and acetaminophen, and the help they offer
can be the difference between complete relief and unnecessary suffering.
Medications taken on a regular schedule are more effective than when taken
just once in a while when the pain becomes too much to bear.  Taking these
medications under a doctor's direction in correct dosages, along with the use
of some of these tips, may offer you the relief you surely deserve.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.