Q: What is the cure for arthritis of the knee?

A:As arthritis is not a single disease, treatment differs depending upon its type. However, the common goal of treatment is to keep the joints moving properly by relieving the pain and stiffness and by reducing swelling. In general, pain relievers like paracetamol, simple anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen, indomethacin and the newer drugs like rofecoxib or celecoxib are often used, especially in acute cases, early stages and in minor forms of arthritis. Specific treatment for the commonest form of arthritis i.e. osteoarthritis (the arthritis of joint aging), is fairly simple in the early stages. Weight reduction, avoiding activities and posture that further damage the joint and regular exercises to build up the muscles. For more information, please refer to the write up on Arthritis in the All Topics section of our website. You could also refer to the queries on arthritis answered by experts in the Questions and Answers section.