Pain Control and Arthritis

What is the best way for an arthritis sufferer to manage pain? There are a number of factors to be considered when determining pain control solutions. Should the solution be pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic in nature? Additionally, side effects, long vs short term aspect of the solution, and potential addiction are some of the variables that influence the effectiveness of pain control measures for Arthritis. About's Arthritis editor, Carol Eustice, offers a solution set for this multi-faceted question.