Diclofenac Sodium to Relieve Joint Pain

Joint pain can be reduced by using drugs containing diclofenac sodium.

Joint pain can be experienced by many people. The causes also vary, ranging from sprains, muscle pain, or due to disease. In older people, for example, joint pain that gets worse over time is usually a sign of osteoarthritis, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis. And because there are many causes, treatment for joint pain is tailored to the root of the problem.

If it is caused by an injury, joint pain can be treated with rest, cold compresses on the painful area, and taking anti-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory drugs. However, if joint pain is due to arthritis, anti-inflammatory drugs and other arthritis medications are usually recommended by your doctor.

There are anti-inflammatory drugs for joint pain that are over-the-counter and can be found at various drug stores without requiring a prescription from a doctor. There are in the form of pills to drink and gel to be smeared. Joint pain medications contain substances that are thought to be effective in relieving or relieving pain, such as diclofenac sodium or diclofenac sodium.

Diclofenac sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This drug works by stopping the production of pain-causing substances. Diclofenac sodium gel is usually used to relieve pain due to osteoarthritis in certain joints such as knees, ankles, feet, elbows, wrists, and hands. If joint pain is felt in many parts of the body, oral or tablet diclofenac sodium can be used. In addition to working as painkillers, NSAIDs such as diclofenac sodium also have other effects such as fever reducer and anti-inflammatory.

According to research, joint pain medication in the form of a gel containing diclofenac sodium is thought to be effective in reducing knee pain suffered by osteoarthritis patients. This research is supported by follow-up studies which also state the same thing.

In addition to being effective in dealing with joint pain, diclofenac sodium gel is also said to be safe to use with few side effects in the form of local irritation of the skin such as dry skin and contact dermatitis. These side effects are more common with long-term use of the gel.

Systemic side effects that accompany after use are called minimal. Side effects that can occur with the use of diclofenac sodium are: stomach ulcers, stomach ulcers, stomach pain, nausea, dizziness, constipation, chest pain, increased risk of heart attack and stroke. This side effect is more likely to occur with the use of the drug orally (taken by mouth), but in the form of a gel can also occur. The risk of side effects is higher with long-term use of the drug.

The use of this drug should be consulted with a doctor if you have a history of disease or conditions such as: heart disease, heart surgery, taking blood thinning drugs (anticoagulants), stomach ulcers, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, drug allergies, asthma, pregnant women, and smoking. Children under 18 years of age are not advised to use this medicine.

If you want to use a gel medicine containing diclofenac sodium to reduce joint pain, it is recommended to follow the instructions for use listed on the label or as directed by your doctor. You can also follow these steps:

  • Clean and dry the area of ​​skin where you will apply the gel.
  • Using your hands, apply the gel to the painful area according to the recommended dose.
  • Make sure that all the affected areas are exposed to the gel.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after you apply the gel. However, if the joint pain is in your hands, don't wash your hands for at least an hour after applying the gel.
  • Apply diclofenac sodium gel to the affected area four times a day.
  • Apply diclofenac sodium gel at the same time every day. For example, if today the gel is applied at 06.00, 12.00, 18.00, and 24.00, tomorrow the gel must also be applied at that time.
  • Do not apply this joint pain relief gel to skin that is sore, peeling, infected, swollen, or has rashes.
  • Do not let this medicine get in your eyes, nose or mouth. In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
  • Do not cover the area with the gel, leave it exposed to air.
  • Do not shower for at least 1 hour after applying the gel.

If after use it turns out that the skin becomes red, irritated, or there are side effects, immediately go to the doctor for treatment. If you suffer from joint pain, it is advisable to see a specialist for proper examination and treatment. For minor injuries, you can rest, limit activities, give cold compresses to reduce pain. You can also use diclofenac sodium gel for pain relief.