Immune system mediators like white blood cells, chemokines, cytokines etc are responsible for the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. There is no cure for arthritis but there are several treatment options which aim to reduce pain and inflammation, ease swelling, prevent joint damage and preserve mobility.

In mild cases of arthritis, patients find that applying cold or hot packs to the affected area eases pain and swelling. Sometimes, a doctor may recommend analgesics like paracetamol to help with the pain. Topical analgesic and anti inflammatory creams are also useful in reducing the symptoms of mild arthritis. Common drugs to treat arthritis include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, diclofenac sodium etc. Then there are COX-2 inhibitors which helps reduce inflammation. Analgesics like acetaminophen, codeine etc help ease the pain associated with arthritis. In severe cases, doctors may prescribe corticosteroids injections. This greatly helps reduce arthritis flare ups.

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs like methotrexate decrease pain and swelling and also reduce risk of joint damage. Sometimes gel like substances are also injected into the joint to aid joint lubrication and prevent joint damage. This is called vasosupplementation. Natural treatments acupuncture, magnet therapy, yoga etc may be beneficial in dealing with the symptoms of arthritis.