Submitted By Charles D. Van Meter M.D.
12.08.2008

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, by the year 2030, an estimated one-quarter of the projected total adult population, or 64.9 million adults aged 18 years or older, will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis. The good news is that there are preventative measures and conservative treatment options available.

Diet – A well-balanced diet coupled with regular doctor prescribed low-impact exercise can help reduce excess body weight, decrease pressure on the joints and increase joint strength. Even small decreases in excess body weight can help alleviate pressure on the joints.

Medications – Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories and cortisone injections can help relieve both joint swelling and pain. Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin along with other nutraceuticals may be helpful, but their long-term effectiveness is uncertain.

Walking Aids – Support braces can be used to help straighten the leg and reduce the amount of pressure on the knee. Walking aids such as a cane also can assist with relieving the amount of pressure placed on painful hip and knee joints. Rest and ice can be used when you notice an increase in symptoms, especially after activity.

Physical Therapy – Supervised exercise may be used to help strengthen joints and promote less painful function. Weak or tight muscles provide little support and can make it difficult to move the joint. Physical therapy can help loosen and strengthen muscles, possibly providing relief from joint pain.

If these conservative non-surgical measures have failed to provide adequate pain relief, there are several surgical options to consider. You should speak with your orthopedic surgeon to determine which treatment method is best suited for your situation.

Overall, orthopedic surgeons and their adult osteoarthritis patients face several challenges. It’s imperative to diagnose the issues early and accurately. Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, patients and physicians should work together to identify a treatment option that allows the patient to maintain an acceptable level of physical activity, thus improving a patient’s quality of life. When the disability from your damaged joint interferes substantially with what you need and want to do on a daily basis, that’s when surgical options should be considered.