There is no cure for osteoarthritis (OA), but there are treatments that can help you manage and live with the condition.2 The goal of treatment is to decrease pain, maintain or improve joint movement, and limit the loss of joint function so you can enjoy an active life.2 No treatment works for everybody, so be sure to discuss all the options with your doctor before starting any treatment.
According to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), drug therapy for pain management of OA is most effective when combined with non-drug treatment strategies.2 In fact, nonpharmacologic measures to manage OA pain should be maintained throughout your treatment.2
By following a stepped care treatment plan – starting with a conservative approach of simple pain medications (analgesic treatments) and moving towards joint replacement surgery as a last step – you can receive suitable treatment during each stage of your condition.3–6 Consider which stage your condition is, and discuss a treatment plan with your physician.
