What is the first treatment tried for reactive arthritis?

Reactive arthritis is joint inflammation that develops after an infection elsewhere in the body. Knees, ankles, feet, or other joints may become painful and swollen, and some people also have eye or urinary symptoms. Anti-inflammatory treatment targets joint pain and swelling, while antibiotics are considered only when a clinician identifies an infection that is still present or needs specific treatment.

Take prescribed medicine according to instructions and mention stomach, kidney, heart, or bleeding problems before using an anti-inflammatory drug. Rest a very painful joint briefly, but avoid prolonged complete inactivity. As symptoms settle, Physiotherapy can restore range of motion, strength, balance, and confidence with walking. Keep follow-up appointments so persistent inflammation or symptoms outside the joints are not overlooked.

Seek prompt care for a painful red eye, blurred vision, fever, rapidly worsening joint swelling, or inability to bear weight. Contact a clinician if urinary or bowel symptoms continue, or if joint pain is not improving as expected. These features may require assessment beyond routine symptom relief.

Ask which Anti-Inflammatory Medication fits your health history and whether any infection needs testing or treatment. Ask which activities are safe, when Physiotherapy should start, and which changes would mean the diagnosis or treatment plan needs review.