5th May 2024

A 68-year-old woman presents with persistent pain in her right knee, particularly when climbing stairs.

A 68-year-old woman presents with persistent pain in her right knee, particularly when climbing stairs. She reports that the pain has been gradually worsening over the past year. She has a history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes. On examination, there is noticeable joint swelling and tenderness on palpation, but no redness or warmth. She has a body mass index of 32 kg/m².

What is the most appropriate initial treatment for her osteoarthritis?