If the knee is swollen, the doctor may remove fluid through a needle and inject cortisone into the joint. An orthopaedist may be asked by your doctor to determine the extent of damage. Although the above descriptions sound somewhat discouraging, the future of most arthritis sufferers is actually very good. The pain and stiffness will follow a peak and valley pattern. The trick is to level out the course of the disease through time by exercise, weight control, drug therapy and an optimistic attitude.
Exercise is basic to the treatment of osteoarthritis.
A variety of options exist including swimming, walking, or riding a bicycle, but choose an exercise that you enjoy and that gives you a consistent level of intensity. Develop stronger muscles to strengthen joint stability. Improve overall fitness. There are basically three types of exercises that you can use to achieve the goals listed above. Swimming, particularly in a heated pool, is excellent because the water supports your body as you take your joints through their full range of motion.