Osteoarthritis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, And Treatment

Numerous non-pharmacological osteoarthritis treatments focus on positive lifestyle modifications to help reduce symptoms and improve joint function. Effective weight management is crucial because excess weight puts considerable strain on weight-bearing joints, particularly the hips and knees. Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility. 

Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and cycling are exercises that help maintain joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Stretching exercises can also improve the range of motion and decrease stiffness as well.

Over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are regularly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation among individuals with osteoarthritis.³ Examples of this type of medication include ibuprofen and naproxen. 

For more severe pain, your doctor might prescribe stronger prescription-strength NSAIDs or a combination of medications. Corticosteroids, either taken orally or injected directly into the affected joint, can provide significant relief from inflammation and pain. However, these are often used for short-term relief due to the potential side effects that can occur with long-term use.

Additional pharmacological options include topical treatments like creams and gels that can be applied directly to the painful joint. These can be useful for localized pain relief without the systemic, full-body side effects of oral medications. Hyaluronic acid injections, which lubricate the joints, can also be considered for knee osteoarthritis.⁴ Combining these treatments for osteoarthritis options can help better manage the symptoms.

Working closely with your healthcare provider is valuable in order to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and condition. Early and consistent management can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with osteoarthritis.

Over-the-counter pain relievers are often the first line of defense against osteoarthritis pain. Acetaminophen is commonly used because it can help reduce pain without causing stomach issues. However, it provides only a limited level of pain relief, and it does not reduce inflammation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are also widely used. They help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, making them more effective for treating osteoarthritis symptoms. These medications are generally safe when used as directed, but long-term use can lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal problems and increased risk of heart disease.⁵

In scenarios featuring excessive pain, doctors may prescribe stronger osteoarthritis medications. Opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, can be used for short-term relief of intense pain.⁶ However, due to the risk of addiction and other side effects, they are usually not recommended for long-term use. 

Tramadol is another prescription option that can be used for moderate to severe pain.⁷ It is considered less addictive than traditional opioids and can be used for longer periods under close medical supervision.

Creams, gels, and patches are topical osteoarthritis remedies that can provide localized pain relief. These products often contain NSAIDs or capsaicin and can be applied directly to the painful joint. They are especially useful for those who prefer not to take oral medications or have specific joint pain. Topical therapies are usually considered safe and effective when used properly and have fewer systemic side effects.

Knee osteoarthritis symptoms include pain, swelling, and decreased mobility. The pain often worsens with activity and improves with rest, but it can be persistent in certain advanced cases. Osteoarthritis knee swelling results from inflammation in the joint, leading to stiffness and reduced range of motion.

Treatment options for knee osteoarthritis include knee braces, which provide support and reduce pain, and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee. Knee injections, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid, can also help reduce inflammation and pain.

Effective osteoarthritis knee exercises include low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and walking. Strengthening exercises such as leg lifts and hamstring curls are also helpful for maintaining joint function and reducing symptoms.

Osteoarthritis can impact the hands, typically affecting the finger joints and the base of the thumb. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can make gripping and pinching objects difficult. Over time, joint deformities may develop, which can further limit hand function.

Methods for managing hand osteoarthritis include using splints to support the affected joints and reduce pain. Occupational therapy can help improve hand function through exercises and the use of adaptive tools. Pain management strategies, such as NSAIDs and topical treatments, can also provide some relief from symptoms and improve hand mobility.

Osteoarthritis hip symptoms often manifest as pain in the groin, outer thigh, or buttocks, especially during weight-bearing activities like walking or standing. This pain can limit mobility and affect daily activities. Options for addressing hip osteoarthritis include physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the hip and enhance flexibility.

Pain medications, such as NSAIDs, can help manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgical options like total hip replacement may be considered to restore joint function and help reduce pain.