If you go to your GP he/she should examine the offending joints. A blood ESR test will be a pointer as to whether it is inflammation due to wear and tear, i.e. osteo arthritis - other tests will indicate if there may be rheumatoid. An X-ray will show the depth of any wear and tear, also if there is any sign of inflammation.
If you can't take pain relief - there are several available - then hot/cold water treatment can help. Warm water and soak: plunge into cold water and soak: wriggling the affected joint as much as possible. Heat and/or cold can ease the ache. Splints can be made for wrist joints which are painful at night to prevent movement.
If knee joints are swollen with fluid then a needle can be inserted to drain it off, it will show if there is infection by the colour of the example drawn. Aspiration also relieves pain as it takes the pressure off the surround joints/muscles.
Can you take Anadin? Not often used these days but a good all round pain relief. Gentle massage with warm oils is a good way of getting some 'me' time
. Swimming does help as it is non-weight bearing but if your pool is yukky
……… maybe gentle walking? On the flat.
I have sciatic pain as well as pain down another nerve, also in the outer thigh. Been present for several years, worse if I lay on the leg for too long at night. [I sleep face down].