Helping to Control Arthritis Pain

Analgesics help relieve arthritis pain. They have no effect on inflammation. For chronic arthritis pain, the American College of Rheumatology recommends acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol®, as the first-line drug for arthritis. When arthritis pain is not accompanied by much inflammation, as is often the case with osteoarthritis, analgesics like Tylenol are a good choice because they carry fewer risks of side effects such as stomach problems. Tylenol is also less likely than many other arthritis remedies to cause drug interactions with other medicines you are taking.

Often analgesics are used in addition to other classes of arthritis medicines when additional pain relief is needed. Acetaminophen often is the active ingredient in products labeled "aspirin-free pain reliever." Over-the-counter analgesics also may contain ingredients, such as caffeine to speed pain relief, or antihistamines to promote sleep. It is important to be aware of these additional ingredients when choosing a pain reliever.

Topical analgesics are ointments and creams that are rubbed directly on the painful area. Because they work only on the areas of the body where they are applied, they minimize the risk of side effects associated with pills, although you can burn or irritate your skin if you do not adhere to the label instructions or if you have sensitive skin. Common topical analgesics available over the counter include ones made from capsaicin, (an ingredient found in cayenne peppers). Others are made from menthol, oil of wintergreen, camphor, eucalyptus oil and turpentine oil, which stimulate or irritate the nerve endings, distracting the brain's attention from the arthritis pain.

For more information about non-surgical treatment options for your arthritis pain visit: www.allaboutarthritis.com.