Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive disorder that affects the synovial joints including the hip, knee, bones of the hands and the facet joints of the spine. It is the most common cause of disability in people aged over 55 years in the UK. Assessing and managing the pain associated with OA requires a structured approach. A range of analgesics has been shown to be efficacious in managing OA pain, but few are without side effects.