Summary Show Introduction The pathophysiology of the condition has been well reviewed.1 Genetic, physical, chemical and possibly immunological factors are involved. The disorder may be primary or the almost inevitable sequel to previous joint damage. i. symmetrical peripheral arthritis ii. oligoarticular large joint disease iii. spinal arthritis Preventive intervention Nonpharmacological management 1. Is there a family history of joint disease? 2. What advice should be given to young sports people and workers in high risk occupations? Knee injuries are a major concern as there is little evidence that cruciate ligament repair, while obviously necessary after major trauma, alters the prevalence and rate of progression of subsequent OA. Similarly, the recognition of occupational risks in certain industries needs to be increased and protective strategies introduced in conjunction with expert ergonomic advice and the cooperation of employers. It is obvious that a third generation farmer with a family history of OA of the hip in parent and grandparent should seriously consider alternative, less physically demanding work. In other occupational situations, ergonomic assessment of the workplace may allow modification of physically stressful environments. Employers are now more likely to accept, or even welcome, such intervention. 3. Is advice about joint protection available and, if so, is it appropriate and practicable? Often advice from well meaning friends is inappropriate and can result in increased stress on affected joints by encouraging excessive use and, consequently, further cartilage damage. Patients with knee OA are frequently surprised to be advised by their doctors to avoid climbing stairs, squatting or excessively using stationary exercise bikes. In addition, the use of weights during active knee exercise, while appropriate for the fit young athlete, may aggravate OA in the knees of older patients. 4. What educational resources are available? 5. Have physical regimens for pain relief been given a fair trial? For the management of the OA of the hands, wax bath therapy or ultrasound in a water bath produces pain relief and allows more effective joint movement and at least temporary improvement in hand function. A modified technique of local moist heat application can be used at home. The hands are liberally covered with baby oil, inserted into thick rubber gloves and then exercised gently in water as hot as can be tolerated for about 10 minutes once or twice daily for pain relief. Any particularly painful small joints may then be rubbed with a suitable liniment or cream. Many preparations contain salicylate or non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs, but there is little evidence of therapeutically effective skin penetration. Hydrotherapy is clearly perceived by both patients and therapists to be effective, but its efficacy has not been fully researched and evaluated. The warm water induces pain relief and muscle relaxation and, with the reduction of the effect of gravity, allows more effective joint movement and muscle strengthening. The availability of TENS machines is limited and, when effective, long term use usually requires the purchase of a machine by the patient or a relative. Most physiotherapy departments can arrange a trial period with the machine to assess its efficacy in pain relief. Acupuncture is rarely available in public hospitals outside pain management centres. Unfortunately, in the present climate of budgetry restraint in most publicly funded services, there can be considerable delay in the provision of services and many patients are unable to afford alternative private facilities. 6. Finally, is surgical treatment the best option? Referral Conclusion Which non pharmaceutical interventions may help to manage pain for a patient with osteoarthritis?Nonpharmacologic complementary and integrative health treatments for OA include mind and body practices such as acupuncture, deep breathing, yoga, tai chi, meditation, massage, and relaxation techniques among others. Some encouraging research has been published on acupuncture, tai chi and yoga.
What is the best treatment for pain when suffering with osteoarthritis?Over-the-counter NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), taken at the recommended doses, typically relieve osteoarthritis pain. Stronger NSAIDs are available by prescription.
What are 3 strategies for reducing the risk of osteoarthritis?Here are doctor recommendations to reduce the risk of OA or delay its onset.. Maintain a Healthy Weight. Excess weight puts additional pressure on weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees. ... . Control Blood Sugar. ... . Get Physical. ... . Protect Joints. ... . Choose a Healthy Lifestyle.. What are the main treatment options for osteoarthritis?How is osteoarthritis treated?. Medications (topical pain medicines and oral analgesics including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, NSAIDs).. Exercise (land- and water-based).. Intermittent hot and cold packs (local modalities).. Physical, occupational, and exercise therapy.. Weight loss (if overweight).. |