Consider Other Treatments
Some of the following techniques are used to treat the chronic muscle pain of fibromyalgia or chronic back pain. These treatments are rarely necessary for arthritis.
Biofeedback uses sensitive electrical equipment to help you be more aware of your body's reaction to stress and pain. The equipment monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperature and muscle tension. A screen or gauge displays the body's signals so you can monitor your reactions.
Biofeedback helps you learn how you feel when your body is tense or relaxed. If you practice relaxation while using biofeedback, you can learn to control some of your body's responses to pain.
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) treatment involves a small device that directs mild electric pulses to nerves in the painful area. Some types of TENS work on the principle of blocking pain impulses through large nerve fiber stimulation. Other types of TENS work by causing your body to release endorphins. The amount of pain relief varies widely from person to person.
During TENS treatment, electrodes taped on the skin in areas related to your pain are connected by wire to a battery-operated stimulator. TENS doesn't hurt, but it may cause some tingling. Usually it feels like a vibrating or taping sensation. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist about whether TENS might help you.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice of inserting small, thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. The needles may stimulate nerves to block the pain signal. The procedure is generally safe and has few side effects. Acupuncture may reduce moderate pain for some people. Talk to your doctor about this method of pain relief and how you can find a qualified acupuncture professional.
Ultrasound uses high-energy sound waves to bring comfort to painful joints and muscles. A physical or occupational therapist can perform this technique.
