The focuses of arthritis treatment are on symptom relief and improving joint function. For many patients, a combination of treatments can help a great deal and provide significant relief. Some of the treatments we provide here at Columbia Clinic Urgent Care include: - Painkillers – These reduce pain, but not inflammation, and they’re only a short-term solution. However, doctors want to treat your pain in addition to the arthritis itself, so painkillers could be a significant component of treatment. Prescription painkillers, such as opioids, could be prescribed for severe pain. - NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) – These work by reducing both pain and inflammation. Some NSAIDs are over-the-counter, while others are available as prescription medications. Corticosteroids and other medications - Physical therapy – This can be effective for many patients and it’s a long-term solution too. The major benefits are an improved range of motion and the strengthening of the muscles surrounding the joints. - Lifestyle and home remedies – Often, the pain and other symptoms of arthritis can be reduced with weight loss, exercise, heating pads, and ice packs. - Assistive devices – Items like canes, shoe inserts, walkers, and even raised toilet seats can help protect your joints and improve your function. Sometimes surgery is an option for patients, but only as a last resort. Here at Columbia Clinic Urgent Care, we’ll want to try the other options before we consider this one.-