A new class of drugs called COX 2 inhibitors that have the anti-inflammatory effects of NSAIDs but don't upset most people's stomachs are being used commonly.Celebrex and Vioxx are the two available forms of this type of drug.

Steroids, which are injected directly into the joint, may also be used to reduce inflammation and pain.

Many people are finding benefit from over-the-counter remedies like glucosamine and chondroiten sulfate. There is some evidence in the medical literature that these drugs are helpful in controlling pain, although they do not appear to grow new cartilage.

• Artificial joint fluid (Synvisc) can be injected into the knee and lead to temporary relief of pain for up to six months.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES:
Exercises are important to maintain joint and overall mobility. Physical therapists and occupational therapists can prescribe an appropriate home exercise treatment. Exercises in water are often effective for increasing mobility.

Heat and cold treatments, protection of the joints, the use of self-help devices and rest are all recommended.

Good nutrition and careful weight control are important. Weight loss for overweight individuals will decrease the mechanical strain placed on the joints of the lower extremities.

THERAPY:
Physical therapy can be useful to improve muscle strength and the motion at stiff joints. Therapists also have many modalities which some patients find helpful. If therapy is not helping after 3-6 weeks then it will likely not be of benefit.

SURGERY:
Surgical treatment to replace or repair damaged joints is indicated in severe, debilitating disease. Surgical options include:

• arthroplasty (total or partial replacement of the deteriorated joint with an artificial joint--see knee arthroplasty, hip arthroplasty)
• arthroscopic surgery to trim torn and damaged cartilage and wash out the joint
• osteotomy (change in the alignment of a bone to relieve stress on the bone or joint)
• arthrodesis (surgical fusion of bones, usually in the spine)
  
  

Prognosis

Disability with osteoarthritis is less common than with rheumatoid arthritis, but movement may become very limited. Treatment generally improves function.

Complications

• decreased ability to walk or perform activities of daily living like personal hygiene, house chores, cooking
• complications from treatments including adverse reactions to drugs or surgical complications

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Ency. home > Disease > O > Osteoarthritis

---

[an error occurred while processing this directive]