Alternatives to pills

[Constance13]

Has anyone any suggestions to smooth pain of polyarthritis without so many pain killers?

I use heat bags and I've tried a Tens machine but that didn't help much. Exercise is agony!

[Batty1]

I use Australian dream cream for my psoriatic arthritis and it has worked well for me.

[HeronNS]

What kind of arthritis do you have? All I can find is that polyarthritis is that affecting five or more joints, but that it can be caused by different kinds of arthritis. Is it the kind they call "autoimmune"?

So very sorry you are in such pain. Wish I could help.

[Constance13 in reply to HeronNS]

Yes "autoimmune". I have had hip arthritis since I was 31 but PMR started the "all over" body pain - not just joints.

[texigal]

Hi Constance.. PMR is short for Polymyalgia Rheumatica. . Did your physician perform confirmatory lab testing and give you that specific diagnosis? If PMR is the diagnosis there is potential treatment other than pain pills. If no contraindications it can be treated with low dose prednisone . The dose is titrated to keep it as low as possible but to quiet the inflammation and painful tissues till resolution. Talk to you physician about options or perhaps consult a Rheumatologist

[Constance13 in reply to texigal]

Excuse me - I had to laugh at your post. At least it cheered me up on a very painful morning.

If you press on my avatar (photo) and read my 'story' you will have the answer to your question.

Summary: PMR 9 1/2 years (very aggressive), Seronegative polyarthritis, Gout, Kidney problems, etc etc.

Constance.

[Hidden]

Hi Constance13.

I know this is a year later but better late than never?

Non-medication pain relief that works for me:

when injured area is cold/hurting, apply heat;

when injured area is hot, apply ice/constriction;

taking 750 glucosamine HCL (hydrochloride NOT sulfate) with 250mg shark chondroiton twice daily with food for my osteo arthritis,

and swimming in a heated pool (or simply immersing body for 30 minutes if not up to moving/swimming) for pain and exercise and relaxation.

Of course, check with your dr first before changing your health regimen.

Hoping you have improved your situation, Constance13.