Cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones
of joints. When there is
cartilage loss, a joint can become bone-on-bone, which is very painful for the patient.
Treatment options for osteoarthritis focus on pain relief and restoring function to the affected joint.
Physical treatments should be attempted wherever possible like weight reduction, exercise, supports, heat and rest. Medications of all forms can be tried like topical, oral, or injectable medications to relieve pain and inflammation .