If you suffer from any type of arthritis, you know how important it is to find effective arthritis relief products to minimize your discomfort. There are many good over the counter products to try before you head to the doctor's office for a prescription. From oral medications to topical solutions, pharmacy shelves are lined with items that promise to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation. This article will cover some of the basic arthritis relief products available so you can find the treatment that works the best for you.

Oral Medications

There are different types of pain medications used as arthritis relief products. The first is analgesics like acetaminophen and the second is NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen. A third category, salicylates, is most of the aspirin-based pain relievers that have also been used as arthritis relief products. Analgesics treat pain, but they do not have any effect on the inflammation that usually accompanies the painful joints in arthritis patients.

NSAIDs are frequently used to reduce arthritis pain. However, both ibuprofen and naproxen can cause potentially serious side effects if they are taken over a long period of time. It is best to take NSAIDs, even those purchased over the counter, under a doctor's supervision to prevent such side effects. Aspirin also has potentially serious side effects if taken for too long, and should be monitored by a doctor as well.

Topical Medications

Topical arthritis relief products are another popular form of pain reduction. These creams and ointments boast a variety of ingredients that can minimize discomfort, at least over the short term. Some contain ingredients that make the skin feel very hot or cold to distract the user from the discomfort. Others contain salicylates that can reduce inflammation as they minimize discomfort. Finally, some arthritis relief products contain capsaicin, an ingredient found in chili peppers that can effectively reduce discomfort for a short period of time.

Herbal Options

Some people also turn to herbal arthritis relief in the form of supplementation and massage oils. There are supplements available that contain blends formulated specifically for the pain and inflammation of arthritis. Alfalfa, wintergreen and ginger are just a few of the most popular herbs for this purpose. You can drink herbal mixtures in a tea, take them in a capsule supplement or rub them on your sore spots.

Arthritis relief products are plentiful, and it is often a matter of trial and error to find the products that work the best for you. The good news is there are many choices so you can find products that will minimize your pain and inflammation so you can enjoy more symptom-free days.