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Rx for Access
Online resource that helps patients better understand health coverage options, choose the right coverage, manage the denial process and reduce health care costs.
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Do I Have Arthritis?
Think you may have arthritis? Learn about the four most common warning signs.
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Gout
Gout is an inflammatory type of arthritis that can come and go.
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  • About Arthritis
    Common Topics
    woman holding her wristWhat Is Arthritis?

    Arthritis is not one disease. Learn about the different types of arthritis, how they differ and why it’s important.

    microbesInflammation and the Immune System

    Body-wide inflammation is at the root of most chronic diseases — and you may have more control over it than you think.

    Patient talking with nurseNewly Diagnosed With Arthritis

    A new arthritis diagnosis can be overwhelming. These tips can help.

    • Understanding Arthritis
    • Arthritis Types
    • More About Arthritis
    • Where it Hurts
    • Related Conditions
  • Treatments
    Common Topics
    Managing Arthritis Care Costs

    Learn the basics about health care costs and financial tools available to you.

    About Biosimilars

    More of these biologic medications will soon be available. Learn what they are, whether you should consider them and what to ask your doctor.

    Man with head in hands on bedWebinar: Arthritis Fatigue Causes and Solutions

    Learn the various causes of arthritis-related fatigue and strategies to combat weariness.

    • Treatment Plan
    • Drug Guide
    • Joint Surgery
    • Complementary Therapies
    • Insurance Management
  • Healthy Living
    Common Topics
    Woman with upset stomachMicrobiome, Gut Health & Arthritis

    Microbiome, microbes, microorganisms – these terms may be confusing, but the types of bacteria living in and on our bodies can impact arthritis. Learn what helps or harms the microbiome and the health of your gut and discover dietary changes that can make a difference. This episode was originally released on January 19, 2021.

    woman consoling anotherArthritis and Mental Health

    Learn about the connection between arthritis, depression and anxiety and how these conditions can make your arthritis worse.

    Woman ExercisingYour Exercise Solution (YES)

    Movement is the best medicine, even when your joints hurt. Your Exercise Solution (YES) is a resource to help you create a physical activity routine with modifications developed and approved by physical therapists.

    • Ease of Use Products
    • Managing Pain
    • Recipes & Nutrition
    • Physical Activity
    • Emotional Well-being
    • Daily Living
    • Family & Relationships
  • Juvenile Arthritis
    Common Topics
    JA Family Summit

    Learn about the National Juvenile Arthritis Conference, a place for families to connect, share and learn.

    JA Camps

    The Arthritis Foundation’s JA camp programs give kids with arthritis and related childhood rheumatic diseases the chance to make lasting memories.

    Juvenile Arthritis Volunteer

    • About Juvenile Arthritis
    • Treatment
    • Managing Pain
    • Medical Decisions
    • Nutrition
    • Emotional Well-being
  • Providers
    Common Topics
    Transforming Clinical Interactions

    The Live Yes! Arthritis community connects patients with others online and in-person for support and education, and encourages patients to play an active role in their health care.

    Partners 4 Patients with Arthritis

    The Arthritis Foundation recently launched an initiative to build stronger relationships and increase recognition of our most engaged practices. 

    Fellowships

    See how we're aiming to address the growing shortage of arthritis specialists, especially in under-served parts of the country.

    • Better Living Toolkits
    • Our Issue Briefs
  • Science
    Common Topics
    OACS Forum Series

    The Osteoarthritis Clinical Studies Forum Series features OA thought leaders from across the globe discussing the future of how the disease can be treated to improve patient outcomes.

    man bandaging boy's kneeConquering Childhood Arthritis

    The Arthritis Foundation is mobilizing patients and their families to engage in studies comparing the effectiveness of treatments for juvenile arthritis and funding research for more options.

    Focus

    • Awards
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    • OACS Forum Series
    • Osteoarthritis Focus
    • Participate in Clinical Trials
    • Partnerships
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  • Get Involved
    Common Topics
    Capital hillAction Center

    Take action today - use the resources here to learn who your elected officials are, what opportunities we have to advocate from the comfort of your own home, federal and state legislation, and more!

    woman listening to podcastLive Yes! With Arthritis Podcast

    You may have arthritis, but it doesn't have you. The Arthritis Foundation’s one-of-a-kind podcast. Hosted by patients, for patients.

    Walk to cure arthritisWalk To Cure Arthritis

    Join the movement and make an impact by honoring those who rock your world at the Arthritis Foundation’s signature walk event, Walk to Cure Arthritis. Register as an individual or form a team and Rock the Walk in your community!

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Back

Medical Treatments for Osteoarthritis Pain 

Primary care doctors, physical therapists and orthopaedists can play an important role in treating osteoarthritis. Here’s the latest evidence on a growing range of options for treating OA pain, including topicals, pills, injectables, physical therapy, orthotic, brace care and more. 

1. Help From Experts
Doctors, therapists, pharmacists and other health professionals play a role in managing your OA. Here are several medical options for treating your pain. 
 
2. Self-Management Program

Self-management programs help you control your symptoms, better manage your arthritis, and lead a fuller life. On-line and in-person programs can be located through The Self-Management Resource Center.
3. Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can create an exercise program just for you. Working with a PT can improve your balance, strength and joint alignment; increase your overall function; and reduce pain. 
 
4. Oral NSAIDs
Over-the-counter and prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the drug of choice for OA. You can get ibuprofen and naproxen sodium without a prescription. Others, like diclofenac or celecoxib, need a prescription. You should take the smallest dose that gives you relief for the shortest time possible.
 
5. Topical NSAIDs
When used on the knee, these rub-on products like Voltaren gel work as well as NSAID pills but pose fewer stomach risks. They may not be as useful when used on the hip due to the depth of the joint or the hands due to frequent hand washing.
 
6. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen can treat mild-to-moderate OA pain, but studies show it doesn’t work as well as NSAIDs do. If you can’t take NSAIDs, acetaminophen may be used as needed for pain.
 
7. Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
This antidepressant has been shown to ease chronic pain, including pain from OA. It can be used alone or combined with NSAIDs. 
 
8. Steroid Injections
Injecting corticosteroids directly into joints with OA can decrease pain. Relief typically wears off after a few weeks. You may need repeat injections. If the doctor is injecting your hip, they may use ultrasound to make sure the needle is in the correct spot
 
9. Surgery
Although you will try other pain-relief methods first, surgery  is very effective and improves function. Different surgical options are available depending on the joint.
 
10. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
This type of talk therapy helps you recognize negative thinking and behaviors so you can respond to challenges more effectively. It has been shown to improve pain, health-related quality of life, mood, fatigue, and function.
 
11. Acupuncture
This ancient practice of inserting fine needles along energy pathways may reduce OA pain. Evidence of its usefulness is not strong, but the risks are low.
12. Radiofrequency Ablation
In this procedure, a needle is inserted next to a nerve near your painful joint. High-frequency energy is passed through the needle, damaging the nerve. Pain relief can last up to a year, or until the nerves regenerate.
 
13. Tramadol
If you are not able to take NSAIDs, have found no other therapies effective, or have no surgical option, the opioid tramadol may be considered. Talk with your doctor about side effects and risk of addiction.
 
14. Medical Care With Self-Care
These medicines and therapies conducted by health professionals should help you start to feel better. But you won’t get their full benefits unless you combine them with self-care treatments.
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QUIZ: Managing Your Pain

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Track Your Health
Share your experience with arthritis to shape research and patient care for yourself and others.
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Get the latest news and tips about living with OA in the Living Your Yes! e-newsletter.

 
 
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    Join us and become a Champion of Yes. There are many volunteer opportunities available.

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    Proud Partners of the Arthritis Foundation make an annual commitment to directly support the Foundation’s mission.

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Ways to Give

Every gift to the Arthritis Foundation will help people with arthritis across the U.S. live their best life. Whether it is supporting cutting-edge research, 24/7 access to one-on-one support, resources and tools for daily living, and more, your gift will be life-changing.

Make a Donation

Help millions of people live with less pain and fund groundbreaking research to discover a cure for this devastating disease. Please, make your urgently-needed donation to the Arthritis Foundation now!

Become a Member

Become an Arthritis Foundation member today for just $20 and you'll receive access to helpful tools..... and more. 

Make an Honor or Memorial Gift

Honor a loved one with a meaningful donation to the Arthritis Foundation. We'll send a handwritten card to the honoree or their family notifying them of your thoughtful gift.

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I want information on ways to remember the AF in my will, trust or other financial planning vehicles.
 

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Volunteer Opportunities

The Arthritis Foundation is focused on finding a cure and championing the fight against arthritis with life-changing information, advocacy, science and community. We can only achieve these goals with your help. Strong, outspoken and engaged volunteers will help us conquer arthritis. By getting involved, you become a leader in our organization and help make a difference in the lives of millions. Join us and become a Champion of Yes.

Become a Volunteer

More About Volunteering

  • Walk to Cure Arthritis
  • Jingle Bell Run
  • Fundraise Your Way
  • JA Camp
  • Start a Live Yes! Connect Group
  • Be an Online Community Moderator
  • Local Leadership Board

Partner


Meet Our Partners

As a partner, you will help the Arthritis Foundation provide life-changing resources, science, advocacy and community connections for people with arthritis, the nations leading cause of disability. Join us today and help lead the way as a Champion of Yes.

Trailblazer

Our Trailblazers are committed partners ready to lead the way, take action and fight for everyday victories. They contribute $2,000,000 to $2,749,000

Visionary

Our Visionary partners help us plan for a future that includes a cure for arthritis. These inspired and inventive champions have contributed $1,500,00 to $1,999,999.

Pioneer

Our Pioneers are always ready to explore and find new weapons in the fight against arthritis. They contribute $1,000,000 to $1,499,999.

Pacesetter

Our Pacesetters ensure that we can chart the course for a cure for those who live with arthritis. They contribute $500,000 to $999,000.

Signature

Our Signature partners make their mark by helping us identify new and meaningful resources for people with arthritis. They contribute $250,000 to $499,999.

Supporting

Our Supporting partners are active champions who provide encouragement and assistance to the arthritis community. They contribute $100,000 to $249,999.

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