Osteoarthritis treatment methods are used all over the world, especially in regions such as the U.S., U.K., and Italy. There is currently no long-term cure for osteoarthritis. However, there are many treatments available to relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. The primary objective of osteoarthritis treatment is therefore to alleviate pain and improve the functioning of the affected joints in patients. In most cases, this is possible with a combination of medication treatment and manual therapy and, in some cases, surgery as well. If the condition progresses too far, however, joint replacement may be necessary. This involves the replacement of a large portion of the joint to restore its proper function and alleviate symptoms.
The most common form of osteoarthritis treatment involves medications and physical therapy. Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to manage pain and reduce swelling. Some patients are given medications orally while others are injected into their joints as osteoarthritis treatment; this depends on the severity of the condition. While some osteoarthritis treatments focus on relieving pain, others help improve mobility and function of joints. Physical therapy can also help improve muscle strength and flexibility, which can be important in people who develop weak and brittle bones as they age. In regions such as the United States, the increasing cases of osteoarthritis have increased the requirements for osteoarthritis treatment. For instance, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, osteoarthritis affects more than 32.5 million adults in the U.S.
Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen are typically prescribed for this form of osteoarthritis treatment. Patients are advised to take these osteoarthritis treatments regularly and to apply them at least four times a day, for up to six months to decrease the stiffness caused by the disease. Mild to moderate stiffness can be relieved by applying heat or ice to the joints or surrounding area. Nonpharmacologic osteoarthritis treatment involves physical therapy, diet modifications, and supplement intake. These nonpharmacologic approaches are usually recommended by doctors to patients who do not respond to traditional osteoarthritis treatments. Weight loss is often a good way to ease arthritis symptoms since excess weight places extra stress on the joints of the body.