May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Arthritis Painful knee arthrosis: topical treatment
Painful knee arthrosis: topical treatment |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I have arthritis in my knee. Is there any cream to help it? If I wwrap an ace bandage around it, it helps a little that I can walk a bit. Dear Bonnie: You may use Capsaicin which is available as a cream, ointment, stick, pad, gel, liquid, or lotion. It is marketed under many brand names including Zostrix, Icy Hot Arthritis Therapy, Capsagel, and Arthricare for Women. You do not need a prescription for capsaicin. You can find products containing capsaicin in the drugstore for over-the-counter purchase. You should follow the directions given by your doctor or the directions on the label (there are different dosages or strengths of capsaicin available). For pain relief, capsaicin is usually used 3 or 4 times a day. You should rub the capsaicin cream or gel into the painful area until no more cream is visible on the skin. Wash hands thoroughly after applying capsaicin. Even with regular use of capsaicin, arthritis pain relief will take some time. Pain relief from arthritis typically is evident 1 to 2 weeks after starting capsaicin. To prevent pain from returning, capsaicin must be continued. However, if pain is not better after using capsaicin for 3 or 4 weeks, talk to your doctor. It may not be worth it to continue. |
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| Last Updated ( Monday, 02 January 2012 ) |
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