Treatment of patients with osteoarthritis

The therapeutic management of patients with osteoarthritis aims to decrease pain and inflammation, improve physical function, and to apply safe and effective treatments. A patient-centered approach implies the active participation of the patient in the design of the treatment plan and in timely and...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Atención primaria 2014-01, Vol.46 Suppl 1, p.39
Main Authors: Vargas Negrín, Francisco, Medina Abellán, María D, Hermosa Hernán, Juan Carlos, de Felipe Medina, Ricardo
Format: Article
Language:Spanish
Subjects:
Humans
Osteoarthritis - drug therapy
Osteoarthritis - surgery
Osteoarthritis - therapy
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Self Care
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Summary:The therapeutic management of patients with osteoarthritis aims to decrease pain and inflammation, improve physical function, and to apply safe and effective treatments. A patient-centered approach implies the active participation of the patient in the design of the treatment plan and in timely and informed decision-making at all stages of the disease. The nucleus of treatment is patient education, physical activity and therapeutic exercise, together with weight control in overweight or obese patients. Self-care by the individual and by the family is fundamental in day-to-day patient management. The use of physical therapies, technical aids (walking sticks, etc.) and simple analgesics, opium alkaloids, and antiinflammatory drugs have demonstrated effectiveness in controlling pain, improving physical function and quality of life and their use is clearly indicated in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Conservative surgery and joint replacement is indicated when treatment goals are not achieved in specific patients.
ISSN:1578-1275
DOI:10.1016/S0212-6567(14)70043-5