It has been known for a long time that prostaglandins are important in many normal processes in our bodies, for example in maintaining a normal lining of the stomach, and that interfering with them would produce side effects. In the case of the stomach these can be ulcers or the inflammation known as gastritis. It has been shown many times that people taking these drugs have a high incidence of stomach ulcerations, even if they have no pain. For a long time it was thought that the interference with the protective functions of prostaglandins could not be separated from the beneficial effects against inflammation and pain, but in recent years the identification and cloning of two genes which control prostaglandins has made it possible to separate the beneficial effects from most of the bad side effects. Studies have shown that celecoxib causes many fewer side effects in the stomach, almost at the low level of the placebo used in the studies.
Hot soaks can be effective for temporary muscular pains.
Chronic pain due to overexertion, muscle strain or overuse syndromes may be more appropriately treated with physical therapy and modification of the motions that cause the pain. For more information on resources for people living with arthritis, click here . This is one doctor who makes housecalls. Tips from the good doctor for the many Thrivers with arthritis. Shop O2 .