How is arthritis treated?
Treatments for arthritis include rest and relaxation, exercise, proper diet, medication, and instruction about the proper use of joints and ways to conserve energy. Other treatments include the use of methods to relieve pain, and assistive devices such as splints or braces. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Ideally, the doctor and patient work together to develop a treatment plan that helps the patient maintain or improve his or her lifestyle. Treatment plans usually combine several types of treatment and vary depending on the arthritic condition and the patient.
