$Unique_ID{BRK01341}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{What Can be Done to Get Arthritis Relief Besides Taking Medication?}
$Subject{arthritis pain medication}
$Volume{M-17}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can be Done to Get Arthritis Relief Besides Taking Medication?


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QUESTION:  I used to be pretty good about dealing with pain, but the pain of
my arthritis just won't quit.  After a time it can get anyone down.  I don't
get much relief from medication any more, and don't want to just keep
increasing the doses.  I know you can't make it go away as if by magic, but
could you please tell me what I can do, besides taking my medication, to get
some relief.  Any advice you can give me would be very greatly appreciated.

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ANSWER:  There are many things you can to improve your situation.  Start by
talking to your doctor.  Perhaps your prescription needs to be changed.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs often work on a patient for a few
months, and then, all of a sudden, stop working.  There are many different
kinds of anti-inflammatory drugs, though, and a change of medications may do
you good.  You can also help yourself by exercising.  Talk to your doctor
about moderate exercise that can help improve your range of motion.  Often
arthritics feel like the last things they'd like to do is exercise, but it can
be very helpful.  Experiment with applications of both heat and cold to
painful areas.  Strange as it may seem. both can be affective, though the
results vary with the individual.  Get involved in activities that you enjoy.
When you are busy, you may forget about the pain.  Do your best to stay
healthy.  That means eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of rest, limiting
drinking alcohol and cutting out smoking.  Cut down on stimulants, such as
caffeine, nicotine and stimulating drugs, as they can intensify pain.  You
might like to keep a journal of how you feel during certain activities and in
certain situations.  Perhaps you'll find that some activities lessen your
pain.  And keep your spirits up.  You sound like a pretty organized person,
and quite capable of developing a mental attitude that can overcome even the
persistent pain of arthritis, if you really try.
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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.
