Arthritis Treatment

In the modern era, most people after 40 years of age complain about painful joints, which include knees. Unfortunately, joint pain accompanies aging just like gray hair or wrinkles on the face. However, it is important to be aware that knee pain can signal the onset of an irreversible degenerative process. Therefore, if knee pain is left untreated, this can ultimately lead to harmful changes within the body.

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The word arthritis has Latin origins meaning, “inflammation of the joints,” and generally refers to rheumatic diseases. In healthy joints, cartilage is able to protect bone from wear and tear because it can regenerate. By contrast, with inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, this can lead to irreversible changes and deformations to bones and joints. As arthritis worsens, this condition becomes a constant source of pain that restricts movement. With thinned or inflamed cartilage, bones are left unprotected and abnormally come into contact. This typically leads to more joint inflammation and swelling, severe pain, and injuries.

Currently, it remains unclear what the underlying cause is that leads to arthritis. This condition typically develops in aging adults. However, for reasons unknown not all adults develop arthritis. Nevertheless, it is known that the following factors significantly increase the risk of arthritis: old age, smoking, excess weight, genetics, and professional activities (e.g., sports) associated with high risk of injuries related to excessive joint strain. There are have been countless reports of arthritis, yet each individual case demonstrates unique signs and symptoms.

Anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed to treat cases of arthritis because these types of drugs are known to reduce pain and inflammation. This temporary pain relief enables patients with arthritis to exercise more often and feel better.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications that are widely used in clinical practice. They are particularly effective for treating diseases associated with inflammation, pain, and fever. The main benefit of this family of drugs is the ability to prevent or reduce inflammation. NSAIDs are widely used as a primary means to manage degenerative joint and back problems.

Prior to taking NSAIDs, it is important to always consider other factors and the potential negative side effects. These factors can include: abnormal anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, possible complications, the presence of other chronic diseases, interactions between NSAIDs and other drugs, and cost of care.

Within the medical community, Voltaren (diclofenac sodium) is recognized as one of the safest and effective NSAIDs. This medication is often considered the “gold standard” treatment for inflammatory degenerative joint and back problems because it regularly outperforms most of the drugs grouped within the anti-inflammatory and analgesic category.

Voltaren is available to consumers in the form of tablets, ointments, injections, or eye drops. In addition to demonstrating anti-inflammatory properties, Voltaren also has antipyretic and analgesic effects.

When Voltaren is prescribed in tablet form, the typical recommended dosage is 150 mg/day. When prescribed in suppository form, the daily dosage is the same as tablets. If Voltaren is dispensed as an injection, patients using administer the drug once a day. Voltaren prescribed in ointment or gel form should be applied to the effected area 3-4 times per day. Voltaren drops should be used less than 5 times per day.