Chronic joint inflammations are typical metabolic diseases. Due to diet over-rich in protein, metabolic waste products are deposited in the tissues of the joints and the body can only break them down slowly, if at all.

Thus a healthy diet, low in animal protein e.g. whole foods, is an important factor in treatment.

Acute inflammatory states can be eliminated and symptoms relieved by the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, some of which are injected directly into the joint.

Other approaches to treatment include physical measures such as ice packs, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, electrotherapy and hydrotherapy.

In very severe cases, various operations are possible: synovectomy is performed to remove the inflamed inner lining of the joint. Corrective surgery restores the correct joint geometry. The final option is to replace the affected joint with an artificial one.