- Exercise helps joint mobility and strength, and exercise in water is recommended because there's no impact on the joints. Medline Plus says other helpful measures are applying heat and cold, eating a healthy diet, getting rest, losing weight if needed, and protecting your joints from extreme stress.
- Medline Plus reports that most doctors recommend acetaminophen first, because it has fewer side effects than other drugs. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen may also be used.
- Prescription drugs, such as Celebrex, are available, but because of heart attack and stroke risk, must be used with care. Corticosteroids may be injected into the joint to temporarily reduce swelling and pain, but steroids have potential side effects.
- According to Medline Plus, there's evidence that glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate help control pain. Capsaicin skin cream may help relieve pain after a week or two of daily use.
- Physical or massage therapy may improve joint strength and movement. Braces can support weak joints, and surgery can replace or repair damaged joints.
previous post