Treatment for Arthritis

Arthritis Involves Inflammation and Pain

Arthritis literally means "pain within a joint.“ It is a term used broadly to refer to a number of different conditions. Onset can occur at any age. Though there is no cure, there are many treatment options available. It is important to seek help early so that treatment can begin as soon as possible. With treatment, people with arthritis are able to manage pain, stay active, and live fulfilling lives, often without surgery.

There are three types of arthritis that may affect your foot and ankle.

Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Proper Treatment of Foot and Ankle Arthritis Addresses Both Pain and Joint Deformity

Once your doctor confirms you have arthritis, he/she will recommend a treatment regimen which may include medications taken by mouth or applied topically (anti-inflammatories), injections (steroids), physical therapy, weight loss, or orthotics such as pads in your shoes or custom-made braces. You should take an active part in your treatment; seek treatment for arthritis as early as possible to help control pain and reduce damage to the joint; take medications as directed, exercise, control your weight, and participate in all aspects of your care.

MYERS Medical Compounding Pharmacists Can Prepare Non-steroidal, Transdermal Medications that Aren't Commercially Available

Anti-inflammatory medication is the cornerstone for treatment of the symptoms of arthritis. These drugs are split into two categories: Steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Corticosteroids such a prednisone make up the steroidal group. Examples of non-steroidal medications(NSAIDs) include ibuprofen and naproxen. While these drugs are widely mass-produced in oral delivery forms, few topical preparations are commercially available.

Working with your doctor, our compounding pharmacists can prepare non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications in topical creams and gels, using Ketoprofen, Diclofenac, Piroxicam and/or Ibuprofen. These ingredients are in a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which work by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. We may also use Guaifenesen is related to metrobammate, carisorodol, mephenesin and methocarbamol. It is believed that it acts by interrupting the polysynaptic reflex arc in the spinal cord and in the brain stem. While most commonly known for its use as an expectorant, has been shown to have muscle relaxation qualities.