Osteoarthritis pain is usually tied to a combination of cartilage wear, changes in surrounding bone, and inflammation in the joint lining. Because symptoms can flare and settle, many people end up using layered strategies rather than a single “fix”—for example, daily movement plus a topical anti-inflammatory, with occasional injections or a brace when symptoms spike.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

New treatment options attracting attention

A recurring theme in the mid-2020s is interest in treatments that target pain pathways more precisely or reduce the need for frequent medication. One example is genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation (including “cooled” techniques), a procedure used in some pain practices for knee osteoarthritis when conservative steps haven’t helped enough. It aims to reduce pain signals from nerves around the joint and may be discussed as an option before (or for some people instead of) surgery.

People also ask about injections beyond standard corticosteroids. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is commonly discussed for knee osteoarthritis, but study results are mixed and protocols vary, which makes outcomes harder to predict. “Stem cell” or amniotic products are also marketed in some settings, but evidence quality is inconsistent and regulatory status can be complex—many offerings are not FDA-approved for osteoarthritis and may come with significant out-of-pocket costs.

Another area that draws attention is the use of digital tools that support rehabilitation: app-guided home exercise programs, wearable activity tracking, and telehealth physical therapy. These aren’t “new medicines,” but they can change adherence—often the deciding factor for whether strengthening and mobility work actually reduces pain over time.

Common approaches to managing joint discomfort

Despite the buzz around newer options, the approaches most people use are still the fundamentals. Regular, joint-friendly activity (walking, cycling, water exercise) and strengthening for the muscles around the affected joint are central because they can reduce load on painful structures and improve stability. In the U.S., physical therapy is often used to build a tailored plan, but many people also rely on home programs when time, copays, or scheduling are barriers.

Over-the-counter pain relief remains common. Topical anti-inflammatory medication (such as diclofenac gel for certain joints) is frequently used because it can provide localized relief with less systemic exposure than oral NSAIDs. Oral NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) are also widely used, but they carry meaningful risks for some people—especially related to stomach bleeding, kidney function, and blood pressure—so clinician guidance matters.

Other non-procedure tools are practical and often overlooked: knee braces, shoe inserts for certain biomechanics, canes used correctly, and pacing strategies that balance activity and recovery. Sleep, stress, and mood also affect pain sensitivity, so cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness-based approaches, or counseling may be part of a complete plan—particularly when chronic pain disrupts daily life.

What experts say about osteoarthritis care

Across major clinical guidance used in the United States, experts generally emphasize a stepwise approach: start with education, exercise, and weight management (when relevant), then add medications and procedures based on symptom severity, joint involved, and safety considerations. The goal is usually improved function and tolerable pain rather than “curing” the underlying joint changes.

When medication is needed, experts often consider topical NSAIDs early for certain joints, and oral NSAIDs for appropriate patients when benefits outweigh risks. For persistent pain—especially when mood symptoms coexist—some clinicians may discuss prescription options such as duloxetine, which can help certain chronic pain states. Opioids are typically approached cautiously due to dependency risk and limited long-term benefit in osteoarthritis.

For flares or when pain remains limiting, intra-articular corticosteroid injections are commonly used, but usually with attention to frequency and individual risk. Hyaluronic acid injections are also used by some clinicians and patients, though evidence varies by guideline and individual response. If a joint becomes severely damaged and function is significantly reduced, joint replacement remains a well-established option with strong outcomes for many patients, particularly for hips and knees.

Finally, experts often encourage patients to bring a list of everything they are using—OTC medicines, supplements, topical products, and therapies—because combinations can create safety issues (for example, duplicating NSAIDs across products). What works best in real life is often a plan that is sustainable: manageable exercise, realistic weight goals, safer medication choices, and clear criteria for when to escalate to injections, procedures, or surgical evaluation.

In practice, what people are using for osteoarthritis pain reflects a mix of evidence-based basics and selective use of advanced options. The most consistent results tend to come from combining movement and strengthening with appropriate pain control and periodic reassessment, rather than chasing a single trending remedy.