Joint pain caused by osteoarthritis can be debilitating.

There are many different kinds of arthritis, but osteoarthritis is the most common. The condition is closely associated with age and the gradual breakdown of cartilage in joints throughout the body as a result of general wear and tear. According to WebMD, while the condition is seen frequently in people who are 60 years of age and older, it is not unusual for individuals in their 20s and 30s to be diagnosed with the disease and experience severe arthritis pain.

The website reports that overall, approximately 27 percent of people living in the U.S. currently have osteoarthritis. Symptoms of the disease include swelling, pain and soreness in the joints, bony enlargements in finger joints and pain and stiffness after long periods of rest or inactivity. Despite its prevalence, there are ways to alleviate the harmful effects of osteoarthritis that will allow someone who has been diagnosed with the condition to live a relatively normal and pain-free life.

Here are a number of suggestions that can help sufferers achieve this goal:

1. Closely monitor your weight: Because osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the joints, it may be wise to take steps to alleviate any unnecessary pressure on weight-bearing areas of the body. The Arthritis Foundation writes that people carrying more than what would be considered their ideal weight may develop severe pain and cause more damage to joints. Diet and exercise are great ways to combat this.
2. Hot and cold treatments: Joint pain caused by osteoarthritis can be debilitating. However, the Mayo Clinic says that localized heat and cold treatments can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness. It's important to remember not to use one or the other for too long and to alternate between the two to achieve the optimal benefits.
3. Stretching: While most associate this activity with the release of pain in the muscles, stretching can also loosen joints and increase flexibility and mobility, the Arthritis Foundation states. The website suggests gentle physical exercises such as tai chi and yoga which will safely and effectively stretch the body with minimal stress on the joints.
4. Over-the-counter medications: According to the Mayo Clinic website, osteoarthritis sufferers can purchase gels and creams that can be applied locally to areas where joint pain occurs. These medicines can be absorbed by the skin and may provide relief from any discomfort. Anti-inflammatory drugs are another effective option.

For more on osteoarthritis:

Treating Osteoarthritis Naturally
Fight Osteoarthritis with the Right Exercises
Finding the Right Treatment for Your Osteoarthritis of the Knee