Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful condition that has no cure. However, there are plenty of methods of rheumatoid arthritis relief that can keep painful symptoms to a bearable level. Some require a doctor's prescription while others can be found at your neighborhood pharmacy. This article will provide three home methods for rheumatoid arthritis relief that are easy to do and have been proven effective at stopping arthritis pain in its tracks.

Over the Counter Remedies

One of the first places people run for rheumatoid arthritis relief is the local pharmacy. Over the counter medications can be helpful in keeping many arthritis symptoms down, but some are not safe to use over the long term. NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin work well in stopping the pain and the inflammation that causes the discomfort. However, these medications can cause potentially serious side effects like ulcers if they are used over a long period of time.

Arthritis relief cream is another popular over the counter method of rheumatoid arthritis relief. These formulas come in a few different types so you can find the one that works best for you. Some provide extreme hot or cold on the skin to relieve discomfort. Others contain salicylates, which give aspirin its pain relieving features. A few provide capsaicin, an ingredient found in chili peppers that can be helpful in relieving pain. Many of these topical solutions provide rheumatoid arthritis relief on low to moderate pain.

Hot and Cold

Heat and cold applications can also offer some rheumatoid arthritis relief. Heat will relax sore muscles, and stimulate blood flow to ease discomfort. Heat can be applied through a hot bath or shower or with a heating pad on a low setting. Ice can be used to reduce inflammation and numb the area so the pain is not as intense. Never use ice if you have poor circulation or numbness in your extremities and avoid heat if you experience limited sensation on your skin.

Assisted Devices

Because wear and tear on the joints can cause additional pain, another option in rheumatoid arthritis relief is to use assisted devices to perform some of the basic jobs in your home. For example, you can find gadgets to help you remove lids from jars or button your clothing. Use these devices whenever possible to ease the strain on sore joints and protect them from further damage and pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful condition, but you don't have to suffer without help. There are many options in rheumatoid arthritis relief that can minimize pain and help you enjoy a higher quality of life.