The less unnecessary stress you put on your joints, the less likely they are to wear out prematurely.

One of the most important things you should do if you show symptoms of osteoarthritis -- recurring pain, aching, stiffness or swelling in or around a joint --is to see your doctor as soon as possible. Osteoarthritis usually comes on slowly.

Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, most often affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. It also can affect the hands and spine.

Doctors and physical therapists say people with arthritis can improve their health and fitness through exercise without damaging their joints.

Taking arthritis medication is important, but what you do for yourself, including exercising, doing relaxation exercises and managing your emotions and attitudes, is just as crucial to your ability to lead an active, productive life.

Although there's no cure for arthritis, the symptoms can be treated effectively in many cases. Here's a look at some proven treatments.

Millions of us struggle with pain and loss of motion because of joint damage caused by arthritis. If other treatments fail to offer relief, you may wonder about turning in your worn-out joints for new ones.

If you have arthritis, taking your medication and following your doctor's orders are essential. But self-care can be just as important in your daily and long-term management of the disease.

No matter what form of arthritis you have, your role as part of your health care team can make the difference in how well you function with pain, stiffness or inflammation.

Effective pain treatments are available. You can also take steps yourself to ease ongoing discomfort.