Answer: Diclofenac is a staple anti-inflammatory that is given out all the time for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Unfortunately it can have negative effects on the kidneys. Elevated creatinin levels is something to be concerned about. There are many other NSAIDs that you could try, but they will probably give you similar side effects. Tylenol can be useful, but sometimes is not as effective. Studies show that the more you move the better the results are for osteoarthritis. There are definitely exercises that are better than others. Weight-bearing exercising is not as effective as nonweight bearing. It would be worth going and seeing a therapist to talk about getting on an exercise plan specifically for osteoarthritis. Here are a couple other options that you may want to look at. A steroid injection can work very well to decrease pain. You are limited on the amount of injections you can have in a year to about three. Sometimes injections can last up to six months. Sometimes they are ineffective. They are worth a try. There is also something called visco-supplementation injections. There are many name brands, talk to your doctor about the one they feel is most effective. The natural lubricant in your knee is synovial fluid. These injections attempt to replace that lubricant creating more of a frictionless environment. These injections are given one time a week for three to five weeks. They can be very effective. Again worth a try. We have a program here at TOSH called the MOVES program that specializes in osteoarthritis. If you want more information you can call at 801-314-6683. You can also get some information from our Web site www.intermountainhealthcare.org/tosh and click on the MOVES link. The site gives information on free community education classes on osteoarthritis.

Question: For several years now I've had knee pain. I do have osteoarthritis. I don't know of any history in my family and am 73 years old. I have had some physical therapy and a few exercises, which didn't seem to help. I've had several cortisone injections, which have helped for several months.

I just finished a series of three Euflexxa injections on June 11. The first shot seemed to really help, but after having all three, I have some relief, but not a lot. I'm interested in what sort of diet might help. I do walk three to four miles at least five days a week. I have been wearing an elastic knee brace when walking or playing golf. Also I'm interested in what exercises might help.

Answer: Sounds like you have been doing some good things. One bit of advice I would give is to relook at physical therapy. Possibly with more of a specialist on osteoarthritis. There are many exercises that can be of great benefit to osteoarthritis patients. We have nutritionists that specialize in an anti-inflammatory diet to assist with osteoarthritis. We have a program here at The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital called TOSH MOVES which is designed for osteoarthritis. There are a series of free classes that are taught that will give you information on physical therapy, nutrition, exercise science, stress management, surgery options and information on current research. You can get more information by calling 801-314-6683. You can also go to our Web site at www.intermountainhealthcare.org/tosh and click on the TOSH MOVES link.