The reasons behind joint pain may range from arthritis to injury to ligament tear and cartilage damage. While joint pain treatments depend on the underlying causes, usually surgical procedures are considered a last resort. For most joint pain conditions, non-surgical treatment options are preferred, and surgery is recommended only when all non-invasive, non-surgical approaches completely fail to cure the pain. Below are the most common non-surgical treatment options for joint pains: Exercise and Physical Therapy For moderate pain, the doctor prescribes exercise that is low impact (such as walking), and don’t erode the joints this is an integral part of joint pain treatments. Proper exercise strengthens the muscles, nourishes the cartilage and helps prolong the life of joints. An individualized exercise regime is often bolstered by physiotherapy, nerve stimulation, ice massage and deep heat to provide effective joint treatment that eases pain and improves motion in the joints and strengthens them. Anti Inflammatory Drugs Over the counter, anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), are the most commonly used medication for non-surgical joint pain treatments. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, Tylenol, aspirin, Advil etc. are the most commonly prescribed drugs for joint pain treatment. Most NSAIDs only help with pain but don’t reduce joint inflammation and must be taken only under a doctor’s supervision.