Current treatments for osteoarthritis can relieve symptoms such as pain and disability, but right now there is no cure for the disease. Exercise is one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis. It can improve mood and outlook, decrease pain, increase flexibility, and help you maintain a healthy weight. The amount and form of exercise will depend on which joints are involved, how stable the joint is, the amount of joint inflammation, and whether a joint replacement has already been done. Ask your doctor or physical therapist what exercises are best for you.
For temporary pain relief from osteoarthritis, you can use warm towels, hot packs, or a warm bath or shower. Cold packs are often used to reduce the inflammation of swollen joints.
Clinical trials have shown that glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may have some usefulness in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis. However, definitive answers about the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are not yet available.
