How is OA treated?
The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and improve function of the affected joints. This can be achieved with a combination of drug therapy and physical measures. If severe, then surgery can be contemplated. Drug therapy is mainly in the form of pain relievers such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). For more serious pain, stronger medications such as narcotics may be required. Joint injections with corticosteroids or a form of lubricant called hyaluronic acid may be beneficial.
