had flare up. Exhausted. Have diabetes.

Suzieq

Looking for a natural pain relief cream or gel. Cannot take anti inflammatories. Any advice or suggestions gratefully received for reducing pain in fingers, knees,ankles and hips. Thanks. t120006 t120006

[Deleted User]

Hi suzieq and welcome to the Versus Arthritis forums.

Although you don’t say so, it sounds as though you are describing osteoarthritis as a cause of your pain. It may help if you gave us a little more information about your past treatment and how long you have had arthritis.

Members are able to give general advice and relate personal experience, but it must be emphasised we are not doctors or medical specialists. It’s worth consulting a medical professional or pharmacist for help. What does your rheumatologist/doctor say?

I look forward to hearing how you are getting on. Do come back and tell us.
Best wishes
Brynmor

dreamdaisy

I know that capsaicin cream can be effective in the short-term at reducing pain levels (and I presume inflammation as it is often prescribed for those with OA). I have an auto-immune arthritis in my fingers and knees, plus osteoarthritis in my knees, hips, ankles and some other places too. I use 30/500 cocodamol for pain relief, at the minimum dose. When OA inflammation happens it is localised and usually caused by my over-doing things so pacing myself is the best preventative.

Are you unable to take anti-inflammatories due to the diabetes? We are a knowledgeable audience about arthritis but not other health issues. DD

stickywicket

Hi and welcome from me too.

I have RA and OA but not diabetes. I think your best bet would be to ask your local pharmacist, reminding him / her of any meds – prescribed or over-the-counter – which you already take. Pharmacists are very good at that sort of advice and, in my experience, quite like being asked.