If your pain is due to osteoarthritis, there are several effective strategies—both medical and lifestyle-based—that can help manage symptoms and improve mobility. Here's a breakdown tailored to your situation:
Medications That Help
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) Often the first-line treatment for mild to moderate pain. Safe for long-term use if taken as directed.
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) Examples include ibuprofen and naproxen. These reduce pain and inflammation but should be used cautiously if you have stomach, kidney, or heart issues.
Topical NSAIDs or Capsaicin Creams Applied directly to painful joints like wrists or ankles. They’re great for localized relief with fewer systemic side effects.
Corticosteroid Injections These can be injected into affected joints for temporary relief. Not recommended frequently due to potential joint damage.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) Originally an antidepressant, it’s also approved for chronic pain including OA. May help if pain is widespread or affecting mood.
Lifestyle and Physical Therapies
Low-Impact Exercise Swimming, walking, and water aerobics help maintain joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Weight Management Every kilo lost reduces pressure on weight-bearing joints like ankles. Even modest weight loss can significantly ease symptoms.
Physical Therapy A therapist can guide you through wrist and ankle-specific exercises to improve strength and mobility.
Supportive Devices Wrist braces or ankle supports can stabilize joints and reduce strain during daily activities.
Natural Remedies
Warm Compresses or Baths Help loosen stiff joints, especially in the morning or after rest.
Anti-inflammatory Diet Foods rich in omega-3s (like salmon, walnuts) and antioxidants (berries, leafy greens) may reduce inflammation.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are popular supplements for osteoarthritis, but their effectiveness varies widely from person to person.
When to See a Doctor
If pain persists despite over-the-counter treatments
If swelling, redness, or warmth increases
If joint function worsens or interferes with daily tasks
A GP or rheumatologist can confirm the diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan. Would you like help finding a specialist near Gold Coast or exploring natural therapies in your area?
While osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause similar symptoms like joint pain and stiffness, their underlying causes are very different, which means their treatments diverge in key ways.
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