Beat Arthritis Without Anti-inflammatories.
Arthritis Drugs Carry Risks.
Many people find they cannot tolerate the pain of arthritis without the use of painkillers. Those most commonly used are anti-inflammatories and narcotics. Regular, sustained use of these drugs can have serious side effects and can be potentially fatal.
Several authoritative websites, such as the US Food and Drug Agency carry warnings of the dangers posed to arthritis sufferers who regularly take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The main serious side effects are heart attacks, strokes and life-threatening intestinal bleeding.
“Based on the currently available data, FDA has concluded that an increased risk of serious adverse cardiovascular events appears to be a class effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)”
A different class of drug is Codeine, which has other side effects. These include addiction, drowsiness and constipation. It is in the same class as other narcotic drugs like morphine and heroin.
It is obviously a good idea if you can find other remedies to alleviate your arthritis pain, in view of the serious dangers inherent in the anti-inflammatories. There are other ways to tackle the problems of pain relief.
Plan Your Diet to Beat the Pain.
Paying attention your diet can make a significant contribution to reducing the pain of arthritis. The World Health Organisation recommends which foods, in which proportions, make up a balanced diet. By identifying which ingredients are beneficial and which are harmful, you can make a big difference to the levels of pain that you suffer.
Some Gentle Exercise is Essential.
When you’re in pain, the thought of putting any more strain on your body can just add to your distress. However, it is most important that some careful movement of all the affected joints should take place every day. You must keep some strength and flexibility in the muscles, because they have the job of supporting and moving the joints.
Swimming, cycling and walking are all excellent for improving mobility, without causing harmful impact on joints. This applies to knees and hips in particular. Swimming, or water aerobics are excellent, because the water supports you and makes movement much easier.
Your Weight is Important.
If you adopt a combination of sensible diet and gentle exercise, it is likely that your weight will stabilise at an optimum level for you and this will not only benefit your all-round health but will also reduce the strain on your joints.
Supplements.
Some useful supplements are available, to provide help in strengthening joints and easing pain and stiffness. Glucosamine (sometimes combined with Chondroitin) is thought to help repair damaged cartilage: Cider Vinegar and honey is believed to help flush away acid deposits in arthritic joints: and studies have shown that Tart Cherries can provide arthritis relief.