Treatments for Arthritis: Which are Fact or Folklore?

For the millions of Americans who suffer from arthritis, managing joint and muscle pain can be a daily struggle. There are several methods of treating arthritis, from lifestyle changes to prescription medications to herbal supplements. Choosing the best treatment plan depends on separating fact from fiction. The following guide outlines some of the most common treatments for arthritis.

Analgesics

The Claim: Analgesics are some of the most common treatments for arthritis related pain. Analgesics, like acetaminophen, inhibit the body's pain receptors and reduce the experience of arthritis-related pain.

The Science: Analgesics are available over-the-counter and by prescription. Their pain-reducing abilities are well documented, but analgesics do not address the inflammation that commonly accompanies arthritis. Analgesics, like other arthritis drugs, do not address the cause or source of pain, but rather interfere with the brain's ability to experience pain.

The Risk: Side effects of analgesics tend to be mild and include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Narcotic analgesics prescribed by a doctor could become habit forming and, when not used properly, could cause a fatal overdose.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

The Claim: NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen combine a pain-reliving property with an anti-inflammatory agent that reduces swelling in affected areas.

The Science: NSAIDs block a hormone-like chemical called prostaglandin, which produces pain as a result of swelling or fever. Several studies have proven the effectiveness of NSAIDs and they are endorsed by the FDA.

The Risk: NSAIDs are a common form of pain relief for several conditions including arthritis. The risks are relatively low but include stomach cramping or pain. NSAIDs also can increase the risk of heart attacks, so patients with cardiovascular conditions might be discouraged from using NSAIDs.

Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)

The Claim: GLA supplements are reported to reduce the swelling and subsequent pain of rheumatoid arthritis.

The Science: GLA can be extracted from primrose oil, borage oil, or black currant oil. It is an omega-6 fatty acid, an acid group which is frequently used in pharmaceutical drug creation because of its anti-inflammatory properties. A 2005 study on the effectiveness of GLA on patients with a particular type of osteoarthritis found that patients who took GLA reported significant improvement of their symptoms.

The Risk: The American Cancer Society reports that GLA is linked to an increased risk of blood clots and may result in negative drug interactions for patients who also take anti-seizure medication.

Fish Oil

The Claim: Fish oil is used to treat muscle inflammation and stiffness, two conditions which contribute to arthritis pain.

The Science: Fish oil contains eicosapentaenic acid (EPA) and docosahexanaenoic acid (DHA), both omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil is extracted from fish like mackerel, herring, tuna, and salmon. Though fish oil can be ingested through eating fish, the health benefits for arthritis are not evident unless a larger dose is taken in the form of a capsule or tablet. In 2005, researchers conducted a study of the effects of fish oil on patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and patients reported increased pain relief when other treatments were combined with fish oil. Repeated studies have found that people who take fish oil reduce their use of prescription drugs for managing arthritis pain.

The Risk: Recent studies found that high doses of fish oil can have a negative impact on patients with certain cardiovascular conditions. Fish oil supplements can be dangerous to pregnant women.

Flaxseed

The Claim: Flaxseed acts as a joint lubricant that alleviates pain and stiffness. Flax seed can also reduce cholesterol levels and certain cancer risks.

The Science: Flaxseed can be ingested in a granular form as well as in oil form. Flaxseed contains alpha-linolenic acid (AHA), an omega-3 fatty acid. When ingested, AHA converts into EPA and DHA. Studies on flaxseed and flaxseed oil have been inconclusive, but supporters believe that flaxseed may have the same or similar benefits for arthritis as fish oil because AHA converts to the same active acids.

The Risk: Flaxseed can interfere with the body's ability to absorb medicine and therefore inhibit the effects of other drugs. Flaxseed should not be taken with asprin or NSAIDs because it can further thin the blood. People with high cholesterol, breast cancer, or uterine cancer should not take flaxseed.

Managing arthritis pain is critical to maintaining quality of life for arthritis sufferers. Discuss all treatment options with your doctor to determine the most effective plan of action for your needs.