the type of treatment selected depends on many factors including your age overall health and the severity of the arthritis. treatments include over-the-counter pain relievers supportive devices (such as canes or crutches) hot and cold compresses applied to painful joints or surrounding muscles exercise and other weight control methods. surgery may be considered in more severe cases. your doctor may also prescribe medications but will often start by having you try over-the-counter remedies (such as acetaminophen) and suggesting that you make some healthy lifestyle changes.
what is the treatment for osteoarthritis?