The use of painkillers for athletes with sports injuries or arthritis sufferers can cause ulcers, other gastrointestinal problems, liver and kidney damage, and even lead to the death of patients. These drugs are also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are available both over-the-counter (or by prescription).
Many professional athletes are now concerned about the long-term side effects of anti-inflammatory medication. Some have even refused to use them.
Others, like Gary Plummer, a former San Francisco 49ers linebacker, opt for topical pain relief to manage their pain. Topical analgesics refer to creams, lotions, and sprays that can be applied to the skin to ease muscle and joint pain. These active ingredients may include capsaicin and salicylates as well as counter-irritants.
Capsaicin blocks “pain message”The brain is blocked by salicylates. Salicylates block hormone-like substances from reaching the brain. Anti-irritants “fool”The sensation of warmth or cold over sore muscles can mask the pain.
Plummer has had 17 surgeries during his NFL career, and one hip replacement after his retirement. He uses a menthol-based pain relief ointment to ease aches and pains that interfere with his daily activities.
“I have arthritis in my wrists, in one of my ankles and six of my fingers,”Plummer stated. “So I just put Joint-Ritis on there.”
He says he’s able to do more of his daily activities now that he doesn’t have to worry about the pain.
“It’s liberating to be able to do things that you basically had taken for granted,”Plummer stated.
Now, he can walk longer distances with a coach.
“I’m out there working with kids for almost six hours, five days a week,”He said. “I’m able to demonstrate hitting positions. Put Joint-Ritis on and I’m good to go coach my boys and practice. That’s always been important to me … to spend time with my kids.”
Plummer stated that he recommends this method often to others, including his wife who often feels pain after hours of gardening.
Joint-Ritis is now available at the stores where you purchase your healthcare products. To find out more, visit www.joint-rites.com www.jointritis.com.
