The goals of treatment are to reduce pain, slow down the degenerative changes in the joint and produce maximum joint function.  Depending on the severity, treatment includes one or a combination of the following:

• controlled exercise to reduce damage to the joint yet maintain good muscle tone
• weight control
• anti-inflammatory medication, such as aspirin
• pain relief
• anti-arthritic medication which protects the cartilage
• surgery
• "Rimadyl"  is the latest, Greatest drug of choice for treating joint pain