Tylenol works wonderfully for headaches and fever, but does little to nothing for joint pain.

Also, on an initial visit for joint pain, I always do a complete exam. Palpation of the joint to pinpoint the location of the pain, a series of tests to assess any instability of the joint (especially the knee, which is the most unstable joint in the body), pulses at the joint and 'downstream' from the affected joint, and reflexes. Then treat appropriately; a joint brace, if needed, instructions for ice and heat as needed, an injection for the acute pain, and then a prescription for management. Usually a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. Diclofenac is an NSAID, which I prescribe often.

If the pain is due to an acute traumatic injury, as from a fall, a directed blow, a physical assault, a car accident, etc, I prescribe an appropriate opioid analgesic for use until the severe acute pain abates, then switch to an appropriate non-opioid medication.