The first thing to do is remain calm. The flare will end. It can be controlled. Sometimes something simple like an ice pack can help relieve the pain of a localized flare in a joint. Make sure to place a towel between the ice pack and the skin.

After a day, it may be helpful to switch to moist heat. This will help increase blood flow to the area and help with healing. It can also help loosen up tight muscles. A heating pad, a hot bath or shower, or even a not moist towel can be used.

Another trick is to use massage. Massage can also reduce the pain associated with muscle spasm that can be a part of a flare.

Sometimes, over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) might help. Be careful! If you already are on a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or a blood thinner, you should not take these medicines without consulting your physician.

Rub it out! Occasionally topical ointments and creams can provide short-term soothing relief. In our office we use Myorx (Contact the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland by emailing us at aocm@adelphia.net to find out more). Our patients love it.

Call your rheumatologist. He or she can give you the best information because they know your case. They will make medication adjustments or ask you to come in for an evaluation.

Don’t worry. Flares can be beaten!

Dr. Wei (pronounced "way") is a board-certified rheumatologist and Clinical Director of the nationally respected Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and has served as a consultant to the Arthritis Branch of the National Institutes of Health. He is a Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology and the American College of Physicians. For more information on arthritis and related conditions, go to: http://www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com

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