Getting older doesn’t have to mean living with pain. Healthy habits, treatment and, when needed, joint replacement surgery can help you manage arthritis and stay active.
Published June 8, 2026
Contributed by: Christopher Matson, MD / Orthopedics
Modern Arthritis Treatments: How to Relieve Pain and Keep Moving
Sore knees, aching hips and stiff joints are common as you get older. But they are not something you have to live with. Today’s arthritis treatments can ease pain, improve movement and help you keep doing the things you enjoy, according to Christopher Matson, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with MetroHealth.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. Joints are where two bones meet, like your knees, hips, shoulders and elbows.
There are many types of arthritis. Two of the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type. It happens when the cartilage in a joint wears down over time. Cartilage is the smooth tissue that cushions your joints.
This type of arthritis often affects the knees, hips and other joints that carry your body weight.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is different. It is a disease where the body’s immune system attacks healthy joints.
It often affects smaller joints, like the hands, wrists and ankles. It can also make you feel tired or like you have the flu.
Ways to Treat Arthritis
Years ago, people thought arthritis pain was just part of getting older. Today, there are many ways to treat it and stay active longer.
Common non-surgical treatments include:
- Anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Changes to daily activities
- Joint injections
- Physical therapy
- Weight loss and weight management
Five Ways to Help Arthritis
You may not be able to prevent every type of arthritis. But there are steps you can take to protect your joints and keep the disease from getting worse.
“Activity is important,” Dr. Matson says. “In the past, we told people to rest. Now we know that staying active helps slow arthritis.”
1. Keep a healthy weight
Extra weight puts more stress on joints, especially your knees and hips. Losing even a little weight can help reduce pain.
“Obesity is one of the biggest risk factors for arthritis that you can change,” says Dr. Matson.
MetroHealth’s Weight Loss Surgery and Weight Management Center can provide you with the medical support you need to start your journey.
2. Keep moving
Regular movement helps keep joints flexible and muscles strong. Good choices include walking, swimming and water aerobics.
3. Build strong muscles
Strong muscles help support your joints and take pressure off them.
4. Manage other health conditions
Conditions like diabetes can increase swelling in your body. Taking care of these can help protect your joints.
MetroHealth offers diabetes education classes that meet your needs and fit your schedule. Call 216-778-7835 or visit metrohealth.org/diabetes for more information.
5. Treat injuries early
Joint injuries can increase your risk of arthritis later in life. Getting care right away can help prevent future problems.
When Should I See an Orthopedic Specialist?
Don’t ignore your joint pain and hope it goes away.
If pain makes it hard to walk, climb stairs, exercise or enjoy your favorite activities, it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist.
If medicine and other treatments are not helping, talk with your doctor about other options.
Is It Time to Consider Joint Replacement?
Joint replacement may help when arthritis pain is severe and other treatments no longer work. Surgery has improved a lot over the years. Many people return to activities they thought they had to give up.
The decision to have joint replacement surgery is personal. Your doctor can help you decide what is right for you.
“When nonsurgical treatments stop working, it may be time to think about surgery,” says Dr. Matson.
Experiencing joint pain?
To schedule an arthritis evaluation and learn about treatment options, call 216-778-4393 or visit metrohealth.org/orthopedics.
Your Questions Answered
Q. Is arthritis a normal part of aging?
A. Your risk goes up as you get older, but joint pain is not something you have to accept. Treatments can help reduce pain and keep you moving.
Q. Can exercise make arthritis worse?
A. Usually not. The right exercises can reduce pain, improve movement and keep arthritis from getting worse.
Q. How do I know if I need joint replacement surgery?
A. If pain makes daily life hard and other treatments are not helping, it may be time to talk with an orthopedic specialist about surgery.
