Effective management strategies for osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease which affects a significant number of people during working life and retirement. The principle symptoms of OA are pain, stiffness, and potentially reduced movement and function of the affected joint. In severe OA the ability to engage in work or social activity may be restricted and as a result, the health-related quality of life of the patient may be affected. There are a variety of approaches which can be implemented to manage symptoms, including the use of orthoses, exercise programmes or in severe cases, arthroplasty. It is important that emphasis is placed on patient empowerment and shared decision-making with regard to managing symptoms and preserving or improving function or the affected joint(s).