Early in the disease, joints may ache after physical work or exercise. When OA becomes severe and the cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint. Over time, the joint may lose its normal shape. Also, bone spurs – small growths called osteophytes – may grow on the edges of the joint. Pieces of bone or cartilage can break off and float inside the joint space causing even more pain and damage.⁶

Mild Osteoarthritis

The pain and discomfort of mild osteoarthritis can become something you learn to deal with everyday.

If you suffer from mild to moderate arthritis pain, your doctor will most likely recommend a non-prescription over the counter medication like Tylenol for pain relief. Or he or she may recommend one of a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - NSAIDS. Even though these medicines can be purchased directly off the drug store shelf - without a doctor's prescription - they should still be taken with care. Check with your healthcare provider before you take any of these medicines for relief for arthritis.

Moderate Osteoarthritis

When non-surgical treatment options no longer address your joint pain, it may be time to consider other pain relief alternatives. The articles in this section are designed to familiarize you with surgical treatment options available

Assessing Your Treatment Options for Advanced or Severe Arthritis

Finding your way through the health system and the different medical specialties can be confusing. There are a number of different specialists who may be involved in the care of a patient with advanced arthritis. Your primary care physician can guide you to the appropriate medical professional to treat your advanced arthritis.

How do you know when your arthritis has advanced to the point that you should talk with your physician about the possibility of consulting other medical professionals?

Severe Osteoarthritis

If you or your loved one experience severe osteoarthritis that significantly disrupts normal daily activities, you may consider joint replacement surgery.

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