Ease the Pain of Arthritis at Brennans Pharmacy

Arthritis is described as the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints in the body and is a very common condition here in Ireland where almost 1 million people are currently affected.

The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, there are actually over 100 different types of arthritis which can have varying symptoms and effects and these are not always just associated with ageing-so if you experience ongoing pain in any joints make sure to contact your GP who will investigate further. Pain, swelling and stiffness anywhere in your joints could be just a short term strain-or an early warning sign that you need to seek medical advice.

While there is no cure for arthritis, there are medications and treatments available which can assist with various types of arthritis. Many over the counter and topical remedies are used by patients to relieve arthritis pain and reduce inflammation.

A lot of people find that environmental factors like cold and damp weather can really aggravate their symptoms and unfortunately this is quite common in our Irish climate! Anti-inflammatory gels like Diclac gel and Voltarol contain a non steroidal anti inflammatory called Diclofenac which can help to quickly relieve localized pain.

Over the counter pain relief tablets like Nurofen and Brupro contain ibuprofen which is also anti-inflammatory, but are not always suitable for everyone and so always consult with your GP or pharmacist before taking.

Another product that can provide fast and effective relief for pain in a specific area is a Deep Heat pain relief patch, which gently brings warmth and relief to the affected area. Deep Heat cream provides penetrating warmth and increases blood flow to the affected area so it can particularly help with rheumatic pain, sciatica, lumbago, sprains and general muscle stiffness.

A newer product that is helping many customers deal with joint pain associated with osteoarthritis is Flexiseq gel, which works by improving lubrication within the joints. Repeated usage is advised in order to achieve results but this drug free gel does not have any side effects that are common to most pain medications (such as stomach upset or increased cardiac risks) common to most pain medications and this will make it appealing to many people who may be conscious of those risks.

While a diagnosis of arthritis can be distressing and unsettling, there are many resources out there to provide support, information and relief to sufferers. The team at Brennans Pharmacy is here to help you.

National Arthritis Week 2022 takes place this April 4th -10th and there is much more information available at www.arthritisireland.ie

Here at Brennan’s we understand that arthritis is a condition which requires ongoing management and we are always happy to advise you on any products such as diclac gel that may suit your particular symptoms.

See our full range of pain relief products here or ask a member of our dedicated in store Brennan’s Pharmacy team for advice and to ensure a product is appropriate for your needs.

See our full range of pain relief products here or ask a member of our dedicated in store Brennan’s Pharmacy team for advice and to ensure a product is appropriate for your needs.