Osteoarthritis

Other lifestyle recommendations include:

• Applying heat and cold
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Getting rest
• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Protecting the joints

People whose work is causing stress in certain joints should find ways to reduce trauma. You may need to adjust the work area or change work tasks.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical therapy can help improve muscle strength and the motion at stiff joints. Therapists have many techniques for treating osteoarthritis. If therapy does not make you feel better after 3 - 6 weeks, then it likely will not work at all.

BRACES

Splints and braces can sometimes support weakened joints. Some prevent the joint from moving; others allow some movement. You should use a brace only when your doctor or therapist recommends one. Using a brace the wrong way can cause joint damage, stiffness, and pain.

SURGERY

Severe cases of osteoarthritis might need surgery to replace or repair damaged joints. Surgical options include:

• Arthroscopic surgery to trim torn and damaged cartilage
• Changing the alignment of a bone to relieve stress on the bone or joint (osteotomy)
• Surgical fusion of bones, usually in the spine (arthrodesis)
• Total or partial replacement of the damaged joint with an artificial joint (knee arthroplasty, hip arthroplasty)

For more information and support, see arthritis resources.

Your movement may become very limited. Treatment generally improves function.

• Adverse reactions to drugs used for treatment
• Decreased ability to perform everyday activities, such as personal hygiene, household chores, or cooking
• Decreased ability to walk
• Surgical complications

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of osteoarthritis.