OSTEOARTHRITIS
PROBLEM
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a very common disorder that affects the weight-bearing and movable joints. OA damages the cartilage tissue in the joint. The cartilage provides the cushion around the joint. If the cartilage becomes damaged, it will become inflamed and irritated and start to thin. When this occurs, there is less cushion between the bones, and you will experience more pain and swelling. The joints most commonly involved are the finger and toe joints, knees, hips, and spine.
CAUSES
There are many causes of OA. A previous injury to the joint, repeated stress to the joint (like a bricklayer’s hands), genetics, age, obesity and other diseases (such as diabetes), or infections may cause OA.
TREATMENT
A.The goal of treatment is to prevent further joint damage.
B.Learn as much as you can about this disorder and ask your healthcare provider lots of questions.
C.Heat and massage may increase joint movement and decrease pain.
D.Physical or occupational therapy may be needed.
E.Heat or ice packs may be used for localized relief.
Activity:
Exercise:
A.Range-of-motion exercises increase the movement of the joint.
B.Careful exercise may also strengthen the muscles around the joint.
C.Ask your provider what is the best type of exercise for you.
D.Yoga and acupuncture have been shown to help relieve pain and stiffness.
Joint protection:
A.Do not overuse a joint.
B.If you work with your hands and have OA of the fingers, take frequent rest periods. This applies to all the other joints as well.
Diet: A low-fat, low-cholesterol diet may be suggested. Losing weight is recommended if you are overweight and if you have OA of the knees, hips, or spine.
Studies show that for every 1 pound of weight loss there is approximately a 4-pound weight-stress reduction on the knees/joint.
Medications: Your healthcare provider may recommend that you take acetaminophen or an anti-inflammatory drug. This should help relieve the pain and stiffness. Special creams also sometimes help joint pain. In cases of severe OA, your healthcare provider may recommend an injection to the joint. For severe pain, surgery may be required.
Remember to take only the medicines prescribed for you.
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.Increased pain despite medication.
B.Fever higher than 100.4°F.
C.Abdominal pain or discomfort after taking medicine.
Phone: ____________________________
RESOURCE
Arthritis Foundation
800-283-7800
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE