Treatment Options

Physical Therapy

The goal is to get you back to the point where you can perform normal, everyday activities without difficulty.

• Preserving good range of motion is key to maintaining the ability to perform daily activities.
• Physical therapists provide exercises designed to preserve the strength and use of your joints.
• Show you the best way to move from one position to another.
• Teach you how to use walking aids.

Walking Aids

Your doctor may recommend a cane, walker or brace.

Medications

• Analgesics, pain relievers, may provide temporary relief of arthritis pain. Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are traditional pain relievers.
• Topical pain relievers are another option. Over-the-counter patches, rubs and ointments can provide quick pain relief for people with arthritis that is in just a few joints — such as a hand — or whose pain isn't severe.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine and chondroitin may relieve joint pain.

• Occur in the body naturally; vital to normal cartilage function.
• Researchers are also studying chondroitin for use in making medicines more effective and helping to prevent blood clots (anticoagulant).
• Not FDA approved.
• Warrant further in-depth studies on their safety and effectiveness, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
• May help osteoarthritis pain and improve function.^{1, 2}

Some studies indicate that glucosamine may help as much as ibuprofen in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee, with fewer side effects.³

Side Effects

These arthritis supplements are generally well tolerated. However, side effects can occur. The most commonly reported side effects are:

• Nausea.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Heartburn.
• Increased intestinal gas.

See your doctor for complete information.