Can osteoarthritis be cured completely?

Osteoarthritis generally cannot be cured, but medical interventions can help relieve discomfort symptoms, such as physical therapy, medication, or surgical treatment. The details are as follows:

The exact cause of osteoarthritis remains unclear; it is a chronic joint disorder that leads to degenerative changes in the articular cartilage or bone overgrowth (osteophytes). Since osteoarthritis progresses with age and joint wear, it usually cannot be completely cured. However, clinical symptoms can be effectively managed through professional medical approaches. If pain or swelling caused by osteoarthritis is tolerable, non-invasive physical therapies such as acupuncture, heat application, or ultrasound therapy may be used to promote local blood circulation and alleviate symptoms. For cases accompanied by significant swelling or stiffness, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications or cartilage-protecting agents—such as celecoxib capsules, acetaminophen tablets, or glucosamine hydrochloride capsules—may be taken under a physician's guidance. In more severe cases, surgical options such as joint replacement or joint fusion may be considered to relieve symptoms, along with regular follow-up examinations.

If osteoarthritis develops, prompt medical attention is recommended to avoid delaying treatment and prevent potentially serious complications.