Arthritis usually occurs after the age of 40. It is caused by the degeneration of cartilage between bones, which is used to cushion joints from the movements and pounding they take. You can get this disease in any number of joints, especially the knees, elbows, shoulders, wrists and between back vertebrae. Fortunately, there are a number of arthritis remedies you can use to relieve pain and inflammation.

The most common remedy is rest. Therefore, refrain from certain sports activities when you have a bad flare-up. Get your weight off your feet if you experience arthritis in your knees or ankles. Simultaneous, take ibuprofen and naproxen to relieve pain and inflammation. These are Cox-2 inhibitors. The body's natural response is to send pain as a warning signal when an area is inflamed or injured. Ibuprofen helps null those effects for fast relief. Take ibuprofen or naproxen every 4 hours as needed.

Interspersing ice and heat can also help relieve arthritis symptoms. Use ice especially during the first 48 or 72 hours. Ice helps reduce blood flow until the joint swelling goes down. Subsequently, apply heat to promote the flow of blood. Your blood contains the necessary ingredients for healing, including oxygen and vitamin C. Use your own judgment as to how you apply the heat. For example, lying in a warm tub of water for 20 or 25 minutes can help relieve lower back pain. An heat pack with a shoulder strap attachment may be more a more convenient remedy for your shoulders.

Another remedy is massage. A massage also increases your blood circulation to expedite healing. It can also eliminate certain toxins in the muscle tissues which tend to exacerbate your symptoms. Ask your spouse for a 15- or 20-minute massage. You can also massage areas like your elbows on your own.

Topical solutions are also highly effective in relieving arthritis pain. There are several ingredients in a topical solution that make it such an effective remedy. One ingredient is capsaicin. This substance cause similar reactions as ibuprofen, eliminating pain signals from nerves. Salicylates contain the same anodyne as aspirin. And menthol is a natural soothing compound that can relieve pain.

Exercise is also an effective remedy. However, it is best to exercise when your pain has subsided and is more manageable. Exercise builds up strength in the muscles surrounding the joints. This ultimately takes pressure off the joints, relieving arthritis symptoms. There are different types of exercises for pain. Simple stretching exercises can do wonders. Your muscles tighten as you age so it is important to stretch them regularly. This can ease pressure on joints. Resistance exercise builds strength. You can do resistance exercises with just your body weight, or use exercises bands or weights. Always seek the advice of your doctor before commencing an exercise program.