Over-the-Counter Products for Arthritis Pain Relief – Pros and Cons

Over-the-Counter Products for Arthritis Pain Relief

If you suffer from arthritis, your physician has likely already suggested over-the-counter products to relieve the pain, stiffness, and swelling.  You should heed his or her advice.  However, if you are looking to switch brands, examine other products, or lower the cost, it is important to know what your options are.  In terms of over-the-counter arthritis relief, you have many options.  What are they?

Pain relievers.  A good old pain reliever can reduce or temporarily eliminate the joint pain that comes will all types of arthritis.  Well-known brands include Tylenol, Bayer, Advil, and Aleve.  In addition to standard pain relievers, many well-known brands have developed formulas just for arthritis.  For example, Tylenol Arthritis capsules have two pain fighting layers.  The first dissolves quickly for immediate relief and the second dissolves slower, resulting in long-lasting relief.

Over-the-counter pain pills all accomplish the same goal, but that goal is reached in different ways and with different formulas.  For that reason, never assume you need to take a pill every 4 to 6 hours.  Read the directions and follow them.

Topical pain relief cream.  Topical pain relief cream comes in a small tube.  You rub the cream onto your body once or twice a day.  Pain relief is felt almost immediately and it will last for hours.  Most creams are deep penetrating and odor free.  You can seek relief without smelling like a walking medicine cabinet.

Examples of why arthritis pain relief

As with over-the-counter pain medications, it is important to read and follow all directions.  Most recommend applying no more than two times a day, but all topical creams are different.  Although not ingested, it is still medicine and caution is advised.

When looking closely at the ingredients for these topical creams, you will find that most have capsaicin as their active ingredient.  This is also found in red cayenne pepper.  For maximum relief, incorporate the spice into your meals.

Heat patches.

It has long been said that warmth lessens the severity of arthritis pain.  It also relieves stiffness and swelling.  If these are symptoms of yours, heated patches can provide you with relief.  These patches are similar to heating pads, but they are ideal for when you are on the go.  They automatically warm with skin contact.

ThermaCare is a well-known brand for heating patches.

Their patches provide relief for all types of aches and pains, including menstrual cramping.  They dedicated a special line of pads for arthritis.  The heat is long lasting, for around 12 hours or more.  Patches are available for the wrist, elbow, knee, neck, and shoulder.

As with a heating pad you warm in the microwave, there are risks associated with these on the go heated patches.  The most common is burning.  As we age, it is easier for the skin to burn.  Those 55 should proceed with caution.  Test the patch during the day before sleeping with it on.

Heating pads.  The above-mentioned heating patches do provide warm relief from arthritis pain and joint stiffness, but they are a one-time use.  Their costs can easily add up.  Use these patches for when you need to move.  If you have the ability to relax at home, a heating pad is best.

Heating pads come in a number of different formats and sizes.  There are those you warm in the microwave and those you plug in.  For nighttime, use the microwaveable pouches.  They cool overtime, so there is less risk of burns when you are fast asleep.

As you can see, a number of over-the-counter products can allow you to seek relief from the joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with arthritis.  These products are available for sale in most retail stores, including drug, grocery, health, and department stores.  Before opting for pain relieving pills or arthritis cream, speak to a medical professional.  Make sure they do not interact with the medications you are already taking.  As for heating patches and pads, they are safe to use, as long as used as directed.

Pros and Cons of Over-the-Counter Arthritis Pain Relief

When it comes to arthritis pain and discomfort, many patients want relief and they want it now.  Many are willing to try just about any over-the-counter product, try any natural remedy under the sun, and so forth.  For many, the pain is unbearable.  As previously stated, there are a number of over-the-counter products that result in pain relief, but are they your best option?

Questions You Need To Ask About rheumatoid arthritis pain relief

The Pros of Over-the-Counter Products

You have many options.  Arthritis pain relief comes in many different formats.  Most turn to pain-relieving pills.  These pills may include Tylenol, Advil, Aleve, Bayer, or store brands.  There are also arthritis creams available for sale.  These creams usually contain the active ingredient capsaicin.  Finally, there are heating pads.  The heat has long been known to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis.  For at-home care, a microwavable or electric heating pad is best.  For on the go in the car, onetime use heating patches are best.

When it comes to over-the-counter arthritis relief, you have many options.  You may wish to try them all.  Experiment and find the best source of relief.

They are easy to buy.  Over-the-counter products are those that can be bought without a prescription.  Anyone can buy them and just about anywhere.  Heating pads, arthritis creams, and pain pills are available for sale both online and locally.  In terms of local shopping, your options include health stores, department stores, drug stores, and supermarkets.

When buying over-the-counter products, don’t change your shopping habits.  There is no need to make a special trip.

Most over-the-counter products provide quick relief.  With the exception of Tylenol Arthritis, which is designed to provide both fast and long-lasting pain relief, it can take up to fifteen minutes for the medicine to kick in.  When in pain, this may seem like a lifetime, but it is actually very quick.  For the quickest relief, opt for arthritis creams.  Many report pain relief as soon as the cream touches their skin!

Arthritis pain relief Tips for Health

The Cons of Over-the-Counter Products

Their costs can add up over time.  The more you use a product, the more you need to buy.  In terms of pain reliever, look for large packages, as they tend to cost less.  If possible, buy in bulk.  As for the heating patches and pouches, the patches are ideal for on the go travel but do not use them at home.  Instead, opt for a heating pad that you can continue to reuse.  In the end, you get a better value for your money.

What is nice about prescribed medications is that insurance covers the cost.  The average co-pay, which is typically around $5, is less than most over-the-counter products.  You can lower the cost of over-the-counter products by shopping at discount retailers, as they are known for their everyday low prices.  Coupons and sales can also lessen costs.

Relief is short.  As previously stated, many over-the-counter products provide fast acting arthritis pain relief.  This is nice, but remember that relief will not be long-lived.  As soon as your medication wears off or when your heating pad loses heat, your pain will start to return.

For the ultimate long-term relief of arthritis pain, swelling, and stiffness, do more than just rely on over-the-counter products.  Prescribed medications, when taken over time, as well as many natural and home remedies, provide long-lasting relief.  If these prove successful for your body, you may not need over-the-counter products daily; just when pain flares up.

Here is an web site the have more information on this topic: https://www.arthritis.org/

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Is orange juice good for arthritis?

Best Beverages for Arthritis | Arthritis Diet | Arthritis Foundation…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/…diet/…/best-beverages-for-arthritis.php
…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/best-foods-for-arthritis/best-beverages-for-arthritis.php

Juices. Orange, tomato, pineapple and carrot juices are all high in vitamin C, which means they have antioxidant properties, which can neutralize free radicals that lead to inflammation. Tart cherry juice has been shown to protect against gout flares and reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.Best Beverages for Arthritis | Arthritis Diet | Arthritis Foundation…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/…diet/…/best-beverages-for-arthritis.phpSearch for: Is orange juice good for arthritis?

Over the Counter Products for Arthritis Pain Relief Pros and Cons

Which fruits are good for arthritis?

The 10 Best Foods to Eat If You Have Arthritis – Healthline…https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-foods-for-arthritis
…https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-foods-for-arthritis

This article will look at 10 of the best foods to eat if you have arthritis.Fatty Fish. Fatty fish varieties such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and trout are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects. … Garlic. … Ginger. … Broccoli. … Walnuts. … Berries. … Spinach. … Grapes.More items…•Oct 4, 2017The 10 Best Foods to Eat If You Have Arthritis – Healthline…https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-foods-for-arthritisSearch for: Which fruits are good for arthritis?

What is the best natural supplement for arthritis?

Alternatives and Supplements for Arthritis Joint Pain – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/…/alternatives-and-supplements-for-arthritis-joint-pain
…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/features/alternatives-and-supplements-for-arthritis-joint-pain

Like many people with arthritis joint pain, you may have considered taking vitamins and supplements that promise to ease joint pain….Plank recommends:Chondroitin sulfate.Glucosamine sulfate.Calcium.Vitamin D3.Ginger.Turmeric.Omega-3.Green tea. Dec 13, 2010Alternatives and Supplements for Arthritis Joint Pain – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/…/alternatives-and-supplements-for-arthritis-joint-painSearch for: What is the best natural supplement for arthritis?

What can you take to lubricate your joints?

You Docs: How to keep your joints well lubricated – oregonlive.com…https://www.oregonlive.com/health/2010/07/you_docs_how_to_keep_your_join.html
….https://www.oregonlive.com/health/2010/07/you_docs_how_to_keep_your_join.html

Get them from salmon, trout, olive oil, nuts, avocados and supplements high in the DHA form of omega-3s. Take these joint preservers. Supplements with a combo of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin may help on two fronts: They increase lubrication and decrease inflammation (and thus pain). Jul 30, 2010 You Docs: How to keep your joints well lubricated – oregonlive.com…https://www.oregonlive.com/health/2010/07/you_docs_how_to_keep_your_join.htmlSearch for: What can you take to lubricate your joints?

What vitamin deficiency causes arthritis?

Here Comes the Sun: Vitamin D and Arthritis – Healthline…https://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis-vitamin-d
…https://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis-vitamin-d

Another study found that vitamin D deficiency is common in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and may be linked to musculoskeletal pain. Not having enough vitamin D can: affect your immune system. reduce calcium and phosphorus levels.Here Comes the Sun: Vitamin D and Arthritis – Healthline…https://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis-vitamin-dSearch for: What vitamin deficiency causes arthritis?

Is it better to use heat or cold for arthritis?

Applying Heat vs. Cold to an Arthritic Joint – Arthritis-health…https://www.arthritis-health.com/treatment/…/applying-heat-vs-cold-arthritic-joint
…https://www.arthritis-health.com/treatment/alternative-treatments/applying-heat-vs-cold-arthritic-joint

Heat can relax muscles and help lubricate joints. Heat therapy may be used to relieve muscle and joint stiffness, help warm up joints before activity, or ease a muscle spasm. Cold can reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain related to arthritis and activity. (It is also recommended to treat many acute injuries.)Applying Heat vs. Cold to an Arthritic Joint – Arthritis-health…https://www.arthritis-health.com/treatment/…/applying-heat-vs-cold-arthritic-jointSearch for: Is it better to use heat or cold for arthritis?

Does exercise make arthritis worse?

7 Joint Pain Triggers That Can Make Rheumatoid Arthritis Worse …https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis…/joint-pain-trigger-pictures/
…https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment-management/joint-pain-trigger-pictures/

Doing High-Impact Exercise. Exercise is important to build muscle strength and protect your joints, but high-impact activities like running may cause joint pain during an RA flare or in cases of advanced disease. When joints are inflamed, don’t force yourself to do more than you can, the Arthritis Foundation recommends …7 Joint Pain Triggers That Can Make Rheumatoid Arthritis Worse …https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis…/joint-pain-trigger-pictures/Search for: Does exercise make arthritis worse?

How long does a arthritis flare up last?

How to Manage Arthritis Flare-Ups – Verywell…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-manage-arthritis-flares-189563
…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-manage-arthritis-flares-189563

An arthritis flare can last one or two days, a week, or more. Unfortunately, a flare usually knocks you off of your usual pace.How to Manage Arthritis Flare-Ups – Verywell…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-manage-arthritis-flares-189563Search for: How long does a arthritis flare up last?

What foods make arthritis worse?

Osteoarthritis diet: 8 foods to eat and 3 to avoid – Medical News Today…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322603.php
…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322603.php

People with osteoarthritis can try adding the following eight foods to their diet to ease their symptoms:Oily fish. Salmon contains lots of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. … Oils. … Dairy. … Dark leafy greens. … Broccoli. … Green tea. … Garlic. … Nuts. Jul 27, 2018 Osteoarthritis diet: 8 foods to eat and 3 to avoid – Medical News Today…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322603.phpSearch for: What foods make arthritis worse?

Will arthritis get better?

Arthritis | Causes, symptoms, treatment | Versus Arthritis…https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/arthritis/
…https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/arthritis/

It’s difficult to say for certain how arthritis will affect you over time. In some types of arthritis symptoms can come and go. Most people with arthritis don’t have major mobility problems, and effective treatment will help reduce the risk of joint damage, even in more severe cases.Arthritis | Causes, symptoms, treatment | Versus Arthritis…https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/arthritis/Search for: Will arthritis get better?

Is apple cider vinegar good for arthritis?

Apple cider vinegar for arthritis: Use and effectiveness…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323074.php
…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323074.php

Inflammation. … However, supporters of apple cider vinegar believe that it contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help with arthritis symptoms, including pain and swelling, in the same way that medication does. Sep 14, 2018 Apple cider vinegar for arthritis: Use and effectiveness…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323074.phpSearch for: Is apple cider vinegar good for arthritis?