What are the Different Types of Arthritis Remedies?

People who suffer with one of the several types of arthritis understand the degree of pain, stiffness and general loss of movement that comes with the disease. Fortunately, it is possible to treat arthritis in all of its over one hundred forms with several basic types of arthritis remedies. Some are simple home remedies that have a great deal of anecdotal evidence to support their use, while other approaches involve the use of over the counter as well as prescription medication.

Depending on the amount of pain, it may be possible to treat arthritis with the use of medications purchased without a prescription. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, ibuprofin, and naproxen can often help ease the pain of stiff joints, as well as aid in reducing swelling in joints like the knee and elbow. These options provide quick relief in many situations, and can easily be combined with other arthritis remedies as recommended by a physician.

At times, something stronger than over the counter medications is necessary to manage the pain and symptoms of arthritis. While the focus of over the counter medications is to provide temporary relief, prescription medication is often aimed at reducing symptoms for extended periods of time. Drugs like penicillamine, sulfasalazine, and azathioprine focus on slowing the progress of the disease, and can often be used with aspirin or ibuprofen without any problem.

There are also a number of alternative methods that help some people deal with arthritis. The use of vitamin and mineral supplements can often make a big difference in the level of pain present. Vitamin C, most of the B vitamins, and vitamin A are often recommended by many homeopathic physicians as effective arthritis remedies. In the way of minerals, a balance of calcium and magnesium is also effective for many people, especially when a small amount of zinc is included.

With alternative medicine options like herbal therapy, it is not unusual for herbs like cayenne pepper, alfalfa, garlic, and red clover to be recommended as effective arthritis remedies Cayenne pepper and garlic help with circulation issues, as well as help to ease swelling in the joints. These herbs can be taken internally, brewed into a tea, or even used in a poultice that can be applied directly to the swollen joint. Red clover and alfalfa can sometimes help ease general pain and balance out the mood, which is often affected by the constant presence of arthritis pain.

The use of heat is also one of the more common arthritis remedies. Many people find relief by spending time in a hot tub or sauna, or by the use of heat lamps. While these options do provide relief in many cases, there is the chance of damaging the skin if used too frequently. Before including these remedies in the treatment plan, ask a physician for guidelines as to the frequency and the amount of heat that can be safely applied.