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Treatments for Osteoarthritis

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Treatments for Osteoarthritis

There is no cure for OA. Most symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and medicines. People who are not helped by these methods may need surgery. Early treatment can improve outcomes and lessen joint damage.

The main goals of treating OA are:

  • Pain relief
  • Maintaining mobility and function
  • Decreasing joint deformity
  • Slowing the disease
  • Maintaining or improving quality of life

OA treatment involves:

Lifestyle changes

Medications

Surgery

Alternative and complementary therapies

Other treatments

References

  • Osteoarthritis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoarthritis. Accessed August 24, 2021.
  • Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/osteoarthritis-oa-of-the-hip. Accessed August 24, 2021.
  • Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/osteoarthritis-oa-of-the-knee. Accessed August 24, 2021.

Contributors

  • Laura Lei-Rivera, PT, DPT
Last Updated:
2021-07-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.