Physical therapy is often recommended in addition to exercises you can do at home. Some people need ongoing physical therapy, while others do well with an occasional series of therapy treatments, which are then followed by an at-home routine. You may be advised to have your therapy at a local hospital or health centre or have a therapist visit you at home.

While medication may seem to be the most dramatic form of arthritis treatment, most physicians say that it is the interaction of the drugs and what the patient does for himself or herself that actually brings about the most relief from arthritis. Medication without exercise isn’t as effective.

In all cases of arthritis, a comprehensive of medication, balanced exercise and rest, and a nutritious diet provides the best change for relief of pain, prevention of deformity, and restoration of a normal life.

The treatment of arthritis consists of many parts. Physicians agree that the most important part is what you can do for yourself. How you integrate the professional recommendations with your lifestyle can make a difference in how you feel.