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The PHARMACIST talks about …

Arthritis

People usually complain of pain in the affected joint, with symptoms usually starting in people who are middle age onwards.

The pain is generally described as a deep ache, which is hard to localise. The affected joints are not usually hot or inflamed, unless the osteoarthritis is very advanced.

Exercise makes the pain worse, whilst rest relieves it, however, prolonged inactivity may result in stiffness. Morning stiffness is common, but usually lasts less than 30 minutes. Osteoarthritis may come and go, with periods when there is very little or no pain. Some people identify particular times when the pain is worse, for example, in damp weather.

Medicine therapy for arthritis includes simple analgesics, namely Paracetamol. Regular paracetamol, two tablets (1gm) three or four times daily is the first choice of treatment in mild to moderate osteoarthritis. It must, however, be taken regularly - not just when required - to have the best effect. Aspirin is not usually recommended in osteoarthritis because of the level of doses required for pain relief and the adverse effects on the stomach.

Osteoarthritis is more common in the elderly and it is normally recommended that they avoid products containing medicines which affect the central nervous system (CNS), for example codeine. These medicines can cause constipation and elderly people may be more susceptible to CNS effects such as sedation. Glucosamine has been shown to help relieve pain and preserve cartilage, but may take up to four weeks for effects to be noticed.

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are important for pain management and keeping limbs functioning.

Weight control will reduce the weight on the joints. Heat may be useful before exercise and ice packs useful after exercise. This is an individual preference and should be trialed for a week or two to determine if either of these treatments provide any pain relief.

The ultimate therapy for osteoarthritis of a joint is to have the joint replaced. This is a relatively common operation in which the total hip joint or knee joint etc is replaced. However replacements have a limited life of about 10 years before another replacement is required. The improved mobility and quality of life after these operations is often dramatic.

Feel free to come in to Healthpoint Chemist and ask our friendly staff for advice.

Please Note: The advice on this website is to be used as an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace advice from your qualified GP or medical practitioner. Please ensure that you speak to them in relation to all of your health issues.