I have given this advice many times. Doctors will not recommend herbal remedies but it is up to you if you feel like giving it a try. It has been proven to be very effective time and time again from the positive feedbacks I received. I used to asses elderly clients and arthritis sufferers all swear by this treatment.
For the first month, while the pain is still intense, take osteo panadol as the pack advises. Start taking Glucosamine Sulphate 1000 mg everyday, starting with the regime described on the label. As the pain lessens, cut down the osteo panadol until the pain is completely gone. For maintence, continue taking GS once a day, everyday especially during the cool seasons.
Remember to stop taking the osteo panadol when the pain is gone completely. There will be no need to take it then. Glucosamine Sulphate is sold by the chemist (pharmacy) and health food stores.
As there are a few foods that can increase the swelling in your joints, google 'foods to avoid with arthritis'. If you really have to eat any of the foods in the list, eat it once or twice weekly in small portions only.
I hope this simple remedy will help you, too.