If your knees or hands feel stiff, achy, or start hurting after a short walk, you might be dealing with osteoarthritis. It’s the most common form of arthritis and shows up when the cartilage that cushions your joints wears down. The good news? You can slow it down, ease the pain, and keep doing the things you love.
The first clue is usually a dull ache that gets worse after activity. You might notice swelling, a grinding sensation when you move the joint, or stiffness that lasts longer than 30 minutes in the morning. The pain often starts in the knees, hips, hands, or spine, but it can affect any joint. If you’ve had an injury before, that area is more likely to develop osteoarthritis later on.
Start with movement. Low‑impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling keep the joint lubricated and strengthen surrounding muscles. Even a 10‑minute stretch routine can improve flexibility and cut stiffness. If you’re carrying extra pounds, losing just 5–10 % of body weight can take huge pressure off your knees and hips.
Over‑the‑counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen work for many people, but talk to a doctor before making them a habit. For those who need stronger help, prescription options like celecoxib are covered in our article on NSAID alternatives. Topical creams and gels can also numb the area without affecting your stomach.
Physical therapy is another solid tool. A therapist will teach you joint‑friendly exercises, proper posture, and ways to protect your joints during daily tasks. If you enjoy DIY approaches, applying heat before activity or cold after can calm swelling.
Supplements get a lot of buzz. Some folks find glucosamine‑chondroitin helpful, while vitamin D and calcium support bone health. Our guide on natural remedies for joint pain dives deeper into what works and what doesn’t.
If pain stays severe or limits your life, it’s time to see a doctor. They may suggest injections, like cortisone or hyaluronic acid, or discuss surgical options such as knee replacement. Early diagnosis with an X‑ray or MRI can guide the right treatment plan.
Living with osteoarthritis is about balance—staying active without overdoing it, managing weight, and using medicines wisely. Keep an eye on new research; emerging drugs and biologics are changing how we treat joint degeneration.
At 1‑Pharm.com you’ll find more articles that break down specific meds, diet tips, and exercise routines tailored for osteoarthritis sufferers. Bookmark the page, try a few of these strategies, and give your joints the care they deserve.
