One can never predict when a condition like arthritis may develop. Arthritis leaves the joints weak and swollen, and one can lose the ability to move or perform even the simplest of daily chores. While there is no cure for the condition, there are several effective treatment options for it, which can help one manage the symptoms. Aside from these, one can also adopt a few lifestyle changes to improve one’s quality of life.

Diet plays a major role
It is not always required to take medicines for reducing arthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in a regular workout and taking a well-regulated diet can help in reducing the pain and swelling. You must pay attention to losing weight if you are obese or even overweight.

Also, you should aim to reduce the intake of arthritis foods high in purine content. These include sardines, dried beans, meat, kidney and liver meat, asparagus, mushrooms, and anchovies. When the body breaks down these purines, it leads to the production of uric acid. The excessive formation of uric acid can pave the way for painful crystal accumulation in the joints.

In general, fried food, processed food, and pasteurized products are all best avoided to alleviate arthritis pain. Such types of arthritis food produce glycation end product, which increases the swelling, thereby resulting in more pain.

Prescribed medication from the doctor is a must. Before you start any medication, it is imperative to consult the doctor for a prescription, dosage, and other related things.

NSAIDs – You must have come across a group of medications called the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Such medicines interfere with the chemicals termed as prostaglandins present in the body, triggering pain and inflammation. These medicines offer excellent remedies to relieve swelling and pain in all kinds of arthritis.

Analgesics – Another group of medicines known as analgesics are more helpful in arthritis treatment for pain, but they generally don’t have any effect on inflammation.

Counterirritants – Certain variants of ointments and gels consist of ingredients such as capsaicin and menthol. If you can rub these preparations on the aching area, it can effectively interfere with the pain signal transmission from the affected joints and give you some relief from the pain.

DMARDs – Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are often used for treating rheumatoid arthritis as they can slow down or even stop the immune system from causing pain and inflammation in the joints.

Biologic response modifiers – These medicines are typically used in close conjunction with the DMARDs. This class of medication has been genetically engineered for targeting the different protein molecules involved in immune response.

Corticosteroids – This group of medicine is an effective arthritis treatment. Your doctor may ask you to take the medicine orally or injected into the affected joints.
Besides these medications, your doctor may recommend you undergo physical therapy. It can help in improving a range of motion and make the surrounding muscles stronger. At times, you may be asked to take braces and splints as well.