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Guide to Arthritis Pain

By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com

Updated: November 25, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

8 of 10

Part 8 of 10 - Treatments for Long-Term Pain Relief

Medications & Other Sources Of Long-Term Pain Relief

Biological response modifiers (BRMs)

BRMs are newer drugs used for the treatment of RA that reduce inflammation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are used to reduce pain and inflammation and may be used for both short-term and long-term relief.

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

DMARDs are drugs used to treat people with rheumatoid arthritis who have not responded to NSAIDs. Treatment with these medications requires careful monitoring by the physician to avoid side effects.

Corticosteroids

These are very effective in treating arthritis but cause many side effects. Corticosteroids can be taken by mouth or given by injection. Because frequent injections may cause damage to the cartilage, they should be done only once or twice a year.

Other Treatments

  • Hyaluronic acid products
  • Prosorba Column
  • Weight Control

    Excess pounds put extra stress on weight-bearing joints such as the knees or hips.

    Exercise

    Many low-impact and range-of-motion exercises may reduce joint pain and stiffness including:

  • swimming
  • walking
  • yoga
  • tai chi
  • stretching
  • cycling
  • Your doctor or PT can help plan an exercise program.

    Surgery

    In select patients, surgery may be necessary. The surgeon may perform an operation to:

  • remove the synovium
  • realign the joint
  • replace the damaged joint with an artificial one (in advanced cases)
  • Total joint replacement has provided not only dramatic relief from pain but also improvement in motion.

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