I was having body joint pain and the creaking/popping where it was getting slightly painful. I could tell it was getting worse. I focused on natural anti-inflammatories, in diet and supplement form. There are many many many herbs and herb extracts that can help big time with joint paint/inflammation. Three big ones right off the top of my head: Oregano oil, fizzy NAC, Turmeric. Also, many essential oils, even rubbed in topically to the area can work miracles for this problem. You have to be careful with internal use though. Just do your research, it's fairly easy to do if you have time on your hands.
Before I started using these things, I would go to get up and ache like crazy, and my joints, specifically in my knees and hips would pop, and creak. Now, I no longer have these issues. I also used to have Gout, and it would kick the crap out of me when I would eat a strong meat meal or drink beer the previous night. I no longer eat meat, but I still drink beer on weekends. I haven't had a Gout flare up, or even Gout related stiffness in a very long time.
Take a look into these things, they more than likely will help you.