The reasons behind joint pain may range from arthritis to injury to ligament tear and cartilage damage. While joint pain treatments depend on the underlying causes, surgical procedures are usually considered a last resort. For most joint pain conditions, non-surgical treatment options are preferred, and surgery is recommended only when all non-surgical approaches completely fail to cure the pain. Learning about these treatment options can help individuals choose the right one based on their condition.

Exercise and Physical Therapy

For moderate pain, the doctor prescribes exercise that is low impact (such as walking), and don’t erode the joints this is an integral part of joint pain treatments. Proper exercise strengthens the muscles, nourishes the cartilage and helps prolong the life of joints. An individualized exercise regime is often bolstered by physiotherapy, nerve stimulation, ice massage and deep heat to provide effective joint treatment that eases pain and improves motion in the joints and strengthens them.

Anti Inflammatory Drugs

Over the counter, anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), are the most commonly used medication for non-surgical joint pain treatments. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, Tylenol, aspirin, Advil etc. are the most commonly prescribed drugs for joint pain treatment. Most NSAIDs only help with pain but don’t reduce joint inflammation and must be taken only under a doctor’s supervision.

Bracing or Splinting

Splinting is one of the common joint pain treatments. It is used to support the joint, improve the alignment, take the pressure off and reduce the pain. Bracing is prescribed by the doctor subject to the joint condition and underlying causes.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are an important type of joint pain treatment where drugs such as prednisone are injected directly into the affected joints to ease the pain. Corticosteroids are effective anti-inflammatory drugs that can reduce joint pain significantly. However, their prolonged use is not recommended and they may be dangerous due to their side effects such as cataracts, high blood sugar and loss of calcium.

Weight Management

In case of pain in joints such as the knees, weight loss may be an effective joint pain treatment as it reduces pressure on the affected joints.