Healthy Living and Fitness

Illness Care: Arthritis

Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Medications used to treat osteoarthritis include a variety of nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Steroids, which are injected directly into the joint, may also be used. Surgical treatment to replace or repair damaged joints is indicated in severe, debilitating disease.

Surgery options may include:

• arthroplasty (total or partial replacement of the deteriorated joint with an artificial joint)
• arthrodesis(surgical fusion of bones, usually in the spine)
• osteoplasty (scraping deteriorated bone from the joint)
• osteotomy (change in the alignment of a bone to relieve stress on the bone or joint)

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.

Physical therapy or occupational therapy may be beneficial.

 

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