Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint condition worldwide, and its burden is particularly heavy across Asia, where ageing populations and high rates of sedentary work are accelerating its prevalence in markets such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and urban China. It occurs when the cartilage cushioning the ends of bones gradually wears down, leaving the underlying bone exposed and inflamed.
Medicines used to treat Osteoarthritis
Voveran Sr
100mg
Designed to address chronic joint pain, indicated to support sustained relief from inflammation and to mitigate physical discomfort throughout the day.
Voltaren Sr
100mg
Utilized to manage musculoskeletal pain and inflammation, this treatment is indicated to alleviate discomfort associated with chronic joint conditions and improve physical mobility.
Aceclofenac Tablets
100 · 200mg
Formulated to manage pain symptoms to alleviate discomfort.
How joints are affected
The knees, hips, and hands bear the brunt of most cases, though any joint can be involved. Pain typically builds slowly, a dull ache at first, deepening to sharper discomfort after activity. Morning stiffness usually eases within 30 minutes, which helps distinguish osteoarthritis from inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Swelling, a grating sensation (crepitus), and a reduced range of motion are common as the condition progresses.
Risk rises with age, excess body weight, prior joint injury, and repetitive occupational strain. Women are more commonly affected, especially after the menopause.
Managing pain and slowing the impact
Exercise remains the single most effective long-term intervention: low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and tai chi preserve muscle support around the joint without adding load. Weight loss where relevant can meaningfully reduce knee and hip stress.
For pain relief, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most widely used class. Options in our pain management range include diclofenac, naproxen, meloxicam, and celecoxib, a COX-2 selective agent often chosen when gastrointestinal tolerability is a concern. Piroxicam and indometacin are longer-established alternatives still widely used across Southeast Asia.
Topical diclofenac gel is an option for localised knee or hand pain, delivering anti-inflammatory effect with less systemic exposure than oral tablets.
If joint pain is severe, rapidly worsening, or accompanied by significant swelling and warmth, a clinical assessment is advisable to rule out other causes and discuss further options.