The most effective treatment for arthritis depends on the type of arthritis being treated as well as the individual patient. Generally, the goal of treatment is to reduce joint inflammation, minimize pain, and improve overall physical function and quality of life.
For osteoarthritis, the primary treatment is usually a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and non-surgical interventions, such as exercise, physical therapy, and weight management. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common medications used to treat osteoarthritis. These can help reduce joint pain and inflammation, but may also cause side effects like stomach upset, bleeding, or an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
For rheumatoid arthritis, medications such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are the mainstay of treatment. DMARDs work by suppressing the immune system, which can reduce inflammation and pain. These medications can have serious side effects, so they’re usually only used when other treatments have failed. In addition to DMARDs, biologic agents, which are proteins derived from living cells, may be used to help reduce inflammation.
For inflammatory arthritis, such as psoriatic arthritis, treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and controlling symptoms. This may include medications, such as NSAIDs or DMARDs, as well as physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other supportive therapies.
No matter the type of arthritis, early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing symptoms and reducing the risk of long-term complications. It’s important to talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition.