How do I Choose the Best Treatment for Rheumatic Pain?

Choosing the best treatment for rheumatic pain depends upon several factors, such as the primary cause. If your doctor believes your rheumatic pain is not associated with a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, you can generally treat the symptoms with lifestyle modifications. This may include limiting outdoor activities during damp cold weather, as well as performing simple exercises to improve circulation and flexibility. Medications may help control pain as well.

Rheumatic pain is often a symptom of an underlying condition. This is why it is recommended to see your primary care physician for a proper diagnosis. If he finds it necessary, he may refer you to a specialist, such as a rheumatologist. This is a physician who specializes in treating diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and associated symptoms of rheumatic pain. Other than arthritic conditions, diseases such as vasculitis and Lyme disease may be a cause of rheumatic pain that requires further treatment.

After you've received a proper diagnosis, your doctor will prescribe a treatment plan that will be most effective for you. Generally speaking, rheumatic pain can be controlled by participating in light to moderate daily exercise, while limiting stress to your joints. Avoid high-impact sports such as jogging and running if your knees are affected. Walking, however, may improve your range of motion and strengthen your joints over time.

When you experience a painful flare-up from rheumatic pain, you might want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, especially one that contains an anti-inflammatory medication. Ibuprofen may help relieve pain and inflammation, but this drug may upset the stomach and possibly cause gastric bleeding, so use with caution and always read directions carefully.

You may want to try various creams and ointments that are sold over the counter to relieve your rheumatic pain. Again, read labels carefully and do not use these products excessively. Using heat and cold alternately as a therapeutic method may provide relief from rheumatism. Ice packs, heating pads, and hot or cold patches may all have benefits, though it's a matter of finding which method works best for you.

Certain foods contain natural anti-inflammatory proprieties, such as tart cherries and blueberries. Try incorporating more of these fruits into your diet to help decrease your inflammation. Salmon and olive oil are also known to help reduce rheumatic pain and inflammation, so add these to your diet as well. If you're experiencing the pain frequently, you should reduce your sugar and carbohydrate intake. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar may increase inflammation and worsen your rheumatic pain.