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The most common forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout and fibromyalgia.
Traditionally, the common signs and symptoms of arthritis
(literally meaning "joint inflammation") may include joint pain,
stiffness, swelling, redness and a decreased range of motion. There
are numerous types of arthritis -- more than 100 in all -- and
therefore many treatments, including prescription and
over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, lifestyle and home
remedies, surgery and alternative medicine. Many arthritis sufferers
will benefit from some combination of these options.
One of the most commonly used arthritis medications is a category
called NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which reduce
both pain and inflammation. Popular over-the-counter NSAIDs include
naproxen sodium, as well as ibuprofen, both of which are available
under a wide variety of retail "store-brand" labels.
"Pain and swelling have a serious impact on quality of life for
many arthritis patients," says Dr. John Tower, president and medical
director of Arthritis Physicians LLC in Rochester Hills, Mich. "In
combination with other therapies, NSAIDs like naproxen sodium and
arthritis pain-relieving topical ointments can provide some
symptomatic relief, and therefore can be an important part of a
patient's treatment plan."
"For patients prescribed an NSAID by their physician, I would
encourage them to purchase store-brand naproxen sodium or ibuprofen
sold at leading retailers and pharmacies," Tower continues. "These
products are regulated by the FDA and use the same active
ingredients, but cost significantly less than the brand names."
Allegan, Mich.-based Perrigo is the largest manufacturer of
over-the-counter medications found under store-brand labels at
leading retailers, grocers and pharmacies. Perrigo offers consumers
a variety of affordable store-brand NSAID choices, like naproxen
sodium in caplet, tablet and liquid gel form, which compare with the
active ingredients in brand names.
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 In addition to drugs for combating pain relief and inflammation,
many arthritis patients find relief with physical therapy, lifestyle
and home remedies and even alternative medicine.
"Arthritis patients need to work closely with their primary care
physicians or rheumatologist to determine which combination of
treatment options is best for them," says Tower, who has been a
practicing board certified rheumatologist for 21 years. "Appropriate
management of symptoms can help people with arthritis to decrease
pain, improve function and stay productive."
Physical therapy and regular exercise help to keep joints
flexible and strengthen muscle surrounding joints, which can result
in improved range of motion for arthritis sufferers. Additionally,
home remedies, such as hot and cold therapy, may help relieve
arthritis pain, while use of assistive devices, such as a cane or
walker, can help protect joints and improve a patient's ability to
perform daily tasks.
Alternative medicine, such as acupuncture, may offer some promise
as a remedy for reducing symptoms of arthritis, but patients should
bear in mind that there is still little reliable evidence to support
the use of such treatments in managing arthritis.
"Arthritis is a complex disorder with many causes and no cure,
but there are effective treatments to manage the symptoms," says
Tower. "Symptom management looks different for every patient, so
arthritis sufferers should consider all of the options in
partnership with their physician."
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