Exercise and weight loss are key to treating osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease and a leading cause of pain and disability in older people. Joint replacement for osteoarthritis of the hip is the only intervention with a large effect, but is only appropriate for patients with advanced disease. There is evidence that topical application of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is helpful. Although less effective in pain relief, oral paracetamol should be tried before oral NSAIDs as it has a lower risk of side effects. Some long-used treatments, such as arthroscopic debridement and glucosamine, are now thought to be ineffective.