Osteoarthritis treatment

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but it can be treated. Beginning treatment as early as possible can help reduce long-term damage to your joints and bones. The goal of every treatment for arthritis is to reduce pain and stiffness, allow for greater movement, and slow the progression of the disease. Newer and more effective treatments for osteoarthritis continue to be developed. But beware of extravagant claims for any arthritis treatment because many have not been proven scientifically to be effective. Avoid any treatment that claims to cure arthritis.

There are several general types of treatment for osteoarthritis. Weight loss and exercise are usually the first treatments recommended. Because of the potential side effects of many drugs that are used for treating osteoarthritis, medication is usually recommended only after weight loss and exercise have not been effective in relieving symptoms. Surgery is recommended only for severe, disabling arthritis that interferes with a person's ability to carry out ordinary daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, or walking up stairs.

A combination of several treatments usually works best but it can take some time to find the mixture that works best for each person. This is why it is so important for you and your doctor to work together as a team to develop the treatment plan that will be most effective for you.

 

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