Drug-Free Ways to Cope with Arthritis Pain

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 50 million American adults experience arthritis, and at least half of these cases experience enough pain to affect their mobility and quality of life. Drugs and pain medication are just one of several options available to manage arthritis pain. Depending on the extent of joint damage and the level of pain, drug-free pain management therapies can be highly effective.

If you’re one of the millions of Americans experiencing arthritis-related pain, stiffness, and mobility problems, we can help. Our team of medical experts and pain management specialists at Republic Spine & Pain offer several drug-free treatment options at three convenient locations in Austin, Georgetown, and Lakeway, Texas.

How to manage arthritis pain without drugs

There are many types of arthritis. The most common form is osteoarthritis (OA), which develops when the cartilage that protects the joint wears down over time, often resulting in permanent joint damage. Pain and inflammation develop when there’s friction between the bones in the joints.

Another common form is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Unlike OA, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. 

In addition to medication, the Arthritis Foundation recommends several drug-free methods to manage arthritis pain, including:

• Acupuncture
• Therapeutic massage
• Yoga/stretching exercises
• Exercise and diet to maintain a healthy weight
• Physical therapy
• TENS Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit

Everyone experiences arthritis pain differently, and the degree of pain can range from mild to severe. Most people respond to a combination of treatments and lifestyle modifications designed to strengthen the muscles that support the joints and to relieve unnecessary pressure and force on the joints. 

When to seek treatment for arthritis pain

Even moderate arthritis pain can become debilitating over time and affect your ability to work, exercise, and enjoy a healthy quality of life. Most forms of arthritis like OA are degenerative, meaning that they will get worse over time and can result in permanent joint damage. 

You should seek treatment if your joint pain doesn’t clear up on its own or with self-care within a few days, or you experience multiple flare-ups within a month. Other signs that you should see our medical team include:

• Swelling and inflammation
• Red or warm joints
• Stiffness and limited range of motion
• Difficulty getting through your daily activities

You should also consult with our pain management specialists if your current treatment plan for your arthritis pain isn’t working.

You don’t have to live with arthritis pain. For more information about drug-free pain management options and treatments, contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our three office locations in Austin, Georgetown, and Lakeway, Texas.