Hi and welcome to Healthcaremagic. I understand your concerns. I hope I have answered your query. Initial treatment may include weight management, which involves losing weight if you are overweight and then, for everyone, maintaining a healthy weight. The treatment may also include exercise: These aim to strengthen the muscles that support the joints. There are non-drug treatments available for osteoarthritis, including: Massage.Acupuncture Heat or cold compresses, where ice or heated compresses are placed onto the affected joint (check with your doctor to see which option, or which combination of heat and cold options, is best for you) Pain medication may also be used to treat osteoarthritis. Suitable over-the-counter products include paracetamol. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are also available over-the-counter in certain strengths. Your GP may also recommend prescription drugs to treat osteoarthritis. These may include analgesics, such as mild opiates, or injections of corticosteroids into the joint. Most cases of spinal osteoathritis can be treated without surgery, but sometimes surgery is used. Kindly regards. Wish you a good health.