Unfortunately, many people with arthritis experience learning to cope with pain on a daily basis. Often the pain is chronic, although in some cases remission may provide respite. I can only recommend that you apply as much as possible the advice formulated in the Prevention section (rest, relaxation, sleep, exercise while respecting a certain balance and listening to your body, thermotherapy). In addition to the medications prescribed by your doctor, I strongly recommend that you use a multidisciplinary approach including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and psychotherapy as needed. Complementary approaches such as acupuncture and massage therapy can also help. Finally, a support group like The Arthritis Society could be of great benefit to you.

D^r Jacques Allard, MD, FCMFC