Regular low-impact exercise — including strengthening, aerobic, and flexibility training — is the most evidence-based intervention for arthritis, reducing pain and improving function without worsening joint damage.

For people with knee or hip osteoarthritis who are overweight, weight loss is one of the most effective interventions — each kilogram lost reduces knee joint load by approximately four kilograms.

Oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for arthritis pain relief and inflammation reduction, with both over-the-counter and prescription options available.

Physiotherapy provides individualised assessment, manual therapy, exercise prescription, and education for arthritis management, addressing the specific joint and functional deficits present.

Acupuncture for arthritis uses fine needles at specific points to relieve joint pain and improve function, with a growing evidence base particularly for knee osteoarthritis.

Applying heat to stiff, aching arthritic joints or cold to acutely inflamed, swollen joints provides safe, low-cost symptom relief that can be self-applied at home.

Boswellia serrata extract is an Ayurvedic herb with multiple RCTs supporting its use for osteoarthritis joint pain, particularly in the knee.

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has multiple clinical trials supporting its use for osteoarthritis pain with an anti-inflammatory mechanism comparable to NSAIDs but a safer side-effect profile.

Glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate are natural compounds found in cartilage, widely used as supplements for osteoarthritis. Evidence is mixed but some trials show benefit for joint pain.

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and polyphenols — and low in processed foods, refined sugars, and seed oils — reduces systemic inflammation that drives arthritis pain.