Osteoarthritis patients who are overweight or obese need to lose weight. Weight loss can reduce stress on weight-bearing joints and limit further injury. A dietician can help patients develop healthy eating habits. A healthy diet and regular exercise help reduce weight. Doctors use medicines to eliminate or reduce pain and to improve functioning.
Doctors consider a number of factors when choosing medicines for their patients with osteoarthritis.
Two important factors are the nature of the pain and potential drug side effects. Patients must use medicines carefully and tell doctors about any changes that occur. Others need a prescription. They should be used with caution in people over 65 and in those with any history of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Their inclusion does not mean they are endorsed by the National Institutes of Health or any other Government agency.