Guide to Arthritis Pain

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

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:

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:

Total joint replacement has provided not only dramatic relief from pain but also improvement in motion.