Some home and over-the-counter (OTC) remedies can support medical treatment for osteoarthritis.
Pain Relief Medication
OTC medication can relieve the pain and discomfort that occurs with osteoarthritis.
According to guidelines from the American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation (ACR/AF), all treatment for osteoarthritis should be personalized by a doctor to each patient’s specific case. One common treatment that can be effective for many is using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). This might mean topical gels, such as diclofenac (Voltaren), which are available without a prescription. (Gels containing capsaicin, which is not an NSAID, are another topical option that might relieve some forms of osteoarthritis pain.)
Oral NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen (Advil), are also available OTC and provide temporary pain relief. If they don’t help, your doctor can prescribe a stronger version. To decide on the best course of action for your specific osteoarthritis symptoms, speak with a doctor. Some people may have adverse effects, depending on the drug and dose.
Heat and Cold Treatment
Alternating heat and cold applications may bring temporary relief from stiffness and inflammation. A common treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis, heat and cold treatment for knee, hip, and hand osteoarthritis in some cases is supported by ACR/AF guidelines. Heat and cold applications have different effects, but both can be useful.
If you’re alternating heat and cold, the Arthritis Foundation recommends applying one for around 20 minutes, then waiting two hours before the next application.
Heat Treatment
Heat relaxes stiff joints and enlarges the blood vessels. This improves circulation and allows more blood and oxygen to reach the joint.
Some heat application options include using a hot water bottle, taking a warm bath or shower, using an electric heating pad, and dipping your hands or feet in melted paraffin wax.
Tips:
You’ll get most of the benefit in the first 20 minutes.
Always check the heat before you apply to avoid burns.
Avoid heat if you have a flare or an injury.
Cool Packs
Cool or cold packs reduce blood flow and decrease swelling and inflammation. Use cold therapy if you have a warm, swollen, or inflamed joint.
To make a cool compress, fill a plastic bag with ice and wrap it in a towel, or buy a cool pack from your pharmacy.
Tips:
Never apply ice directly to the skin, as it can burn.
As with heat, 20 minutes of cold application will give you the best benefits.
TENS Machine
Some studies support that TENS use helped people with knee osteoarthritis improve muscle strength and reduce pain, but broader, higher-quality research is needed.
A TENS machine is likely safe for most people to use, but it’s best to check first with a doctor. It’s not recommended for use during pregnancy or if you have epilepsy or a pacemaker.
Weight Management
Current guidelines strongly recommend managing your weight if you have osteoarthritis.
Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent unnecessary strain on your joints. Obesity can also increase the risk of systemic inflammation, which may worsen osteoarthritis.
Diet and exercise are important factors in weight management. Your doctor may prescribe weight loss medication or other treatments if they have particular concerns. The 2026 ACR/AF guideline update specifically added a new conditional recommendation supporting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, alongside diet and exercise, to help eligible people with knee osteoarthritis and obesity reach a healthy weight.