Arthritis Knee Pain – Four Most Common Methods of Pain Management

People suffering from arthritis knee pain are well aware of the poor quality of life the disease can contribute to. The pain is especially bad in the morning where it can be quite painful to even stretch the knee out in order to walk. The stiffness of the joints and the inflammation caused by the arthritis can be so severe it can render a person immobile! In some cases where a persons job requires they be on their feet most of the day, especially athletes, arthritis can hinder a person’s ability to work and has been a big factor in lost production and wages as well as disability claims and insurance payouts. The origin of the disease is largely unknown and so far there is no cure. There are, however, other methods of relief that can be used to help fight the battle against arthritis knee pain.

Vitamins

Modern as well as ancient natural supplements have been known to aid quite nicely in relieving some of the knee pain caused by arthritisvitamins. Glucosamine and Chondroitin are the most popular over the counter supplements that act a a lubricant to the joint as well as an anti-inflammatory. And ancient supplement used by the Chinese for over 2000 years called ‘velvet deer antler’ has gained notoriety for it’s healing properties as well as cartilage regrowth for patients with arthritis. In fact, velvet antler has been classified as an all over health tonic with no side effects!

Prescription Medications

There have been several arthritis medications introduced to the market within the last decade all of which require a physicians prescription. Depending on the medication itself, most carry anti-inflammatory properties as well as pain relieving and can help the patient manage the pain while slowly rebuilding the cartilage and damaged tissue surrounding the knee. Most if not all of the prescription medications carry the possibility of negative side effects which should be disclosed to you by your doctor as well as the medicines’ packaging.

Cortisone Injections

Patients with arthritis pain in their knee(s) may find temporary relief in cortisone shots. Consisting of a  hormone usually manufactured by the human bodies adrenal gland, these shots can help to reduce the inflammation surrounding the joints bringing relief. Unfortunately the shot can not help the actual joint itself that has been damaged by the arthritis. It has been suggested that cortisone shots should not be received more than 4 times a year.

Surgery

For patients with severe knee pain who have tried every other method but haven’t received the relief they need, surgery should be the last resort. Consult with a specialist to see if this may be right for you.

Arthritis knee pain can be debilitating to some patients and can make it difficult to perform even the most mundane tasks, such as walking. Thanks to modern medicine, some of the symptoms may be alleviated even though arthritis can not yet be cured. Discuss with your doctor the right course of action for your case.


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