How is osteoarthritis treated? Is it curable?

Unfortunately, osteoarthritis, or OA, is not curable yet. Treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms and keeping the joints as usable as possible. If you have OA, your doctor may prescribe medications such as anti-inflammatories or pain killers. It may also be suggested that you make some lifestyle changes if needed. If you are overweight, this can cause extra stress on your joints, so losing weight may be recommended. Exercise can help keep your joints as mobile as possible and some people get relief from heat or cold compresses. In some cases, your doctor could refer you for physiotherapy.

In severe cases, surgery to replace the affected joint is an option.