IT’S
pretty easy to take most of the
200-plus joints in the body for granted—
until something goes awry.
Then, certainly, an ailing joint gets your
attention, as anyone can attest who’s ever
suffered from an arthritic hip, throbbing
knee or any other kind of painful problem in
a place where two or more bones meet.
If, by chance, you’re coping with an aching
joint right now, there are likely some remedies
available to ease your pain. Of course, your doctor is
the go-to person for specific advice on your case.
In the meantime, here’s a look at some of the most effec-
tive treatments for common problems in some of the major
joints, with information from the American Academy of
Orthopaedic Surgeons and the National Institutes of Health
(NIH).
Hips
Arthritis is the major cause of hip pain and disability. It
wears away the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of
bones and helps the hip joint glide. If cartilage disappears com-
pletely, bones rub directly against each other, mak-
ing movement very painful.
The damage arthritis causes can’t be reversed.
Still, there are things that can help control the
pain of mild arthritis and slow the disease’s
progression:
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Physical therapy or activity that includes
gentle, regular exercise, such as swimming or
cycling.
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Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or
ibuprofen.
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Weight loss, if you carry extra pounds.
If a hip is severely damaged by arthritis, hip
replacement may be a good option. The damaged hip is replaced
with one made of metal or other materials in a relatively routine
surgery. Most people who undergo hip replacement surgery expe-
rience a dramatic reduction in pain.
by the joint
Treating common problems
in the places where bones meet
Your doctor
is the best source
of specific advice
about your pain.
shoulder
elbow
hip
knee
foot
Considering joint surgery?
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