What Is Voltaren Gel Used For?
The prescription medicine Voltaren Gel treats osteoarthritis that affects the knees, ankles, feet, elbows, wrists, and hands. Voltaren Gel is a type of NSAID and works by blocking a specific enzyme in the body and reducing inflammation. On occasion, a healthcare provider may recommend an off-label use of Voltaren Gel, such as for treating other types of arthritis.
An Overview of Voltaren Gel UsesVoltaren® Gel (diclofenac gel) is a prescription arthritis medication. Specifically, it is approved to treat osteoarthritis of the knees, ankles, feet, elbows, wrists, and hands.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. This painful condition occurs when cartilage begins to become ragged and wears away. Cartilage is the tissue that pads bones in a joint. Over time, all of the cartilage in a joint can wear away, leaving bones that rub against each other.
Additionally, the fluid within the joint that normally lubricates and cushions the joints becomes thin and less able to protect the joint, contributing to the development of osteoarthritis symptoms.
Osteoarthritis research scientists do not know the exact cause or causes of osteoarthritis, although aging plays an important role.
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatments that can ease pain and improve function.
Some specific treatments include:
- Medications (see Osteoarthritis Medication)
- Exercise (see Arthritis and Exercise)
- Other pain-relief options
- Viscosupplement therapy (knee injections, such as Synvisc®)
- Surgery (such as a Hip Replacement or Knee Replacement)
- Alternative therapies (see Acupuncture for Osteoarthritis or Natural Cures for Arthritis).