Managing arthritis pain can be an ongoing challenge. Often, one of the first things doctors will do is prescribe a pain reliever — usually an NSAID — for you to use, as needed, to keep your pain and inflammation under control. This usually works for a while, but as your arthritis keeps progressing, you may eventually reach a point where the pain persists, even after you take your pain medications. Here are some pain management treatments to discuss with your doctor when you find yourself in this situation.

CBD

CBD has become quite common for pain and inflammation relief. On its own, it may not be enough to completely get rid of severe arthritis pain and inflammation. However, when used in conjunction with the pain relievers you're already taking, it might provide that extra little push to keep you more comfortable. CBD is generally safe to take alongside prescription pain medications, including NSAIDs. Also, you can vaporize it or apply it topically to the sore areas, allowing it to take action quickly. You won't have to wait for it to kick in as you would another oral medication.

Physical Therapy

You may want to ask your doctor to refer you to a physical therapist. Although physical therapists are best known for their treatment of athletic injuries, they can also help relieve arthritis symptoms. They may guide you through exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles associated with your arthritic joints. Once stretched and strengthened, these muscles can take some of the strain off the arthritic joints so that you don't experience so much pain. Good physical therapy can also help keep your arthritis from continuing to worsen over time.

Massage

Sometimes, arthritis patients find that not only are their joints painful, but the muscles associated with those joints become painful because you are compensating with them as you walk and move about. If you and your doctor think this is where a lot of your pain is coming from, then they may recommend you visit a massage therapist. They can employ various deep tissue massage techniques to loosen your muscles and get rid of painful adhesions. This can also help your joints to move more freely, which may loosen them up and relieve arthritis pain.

While mild arthritis can be managed with NSAIDs alone, you may reach a point where these pain relievers are not quite enough. When that time comes, talk to your doctor. They can provide more information regarding pain management.