Patient/caregiver was educated on the measures to manage symptoms and prevent exacerbation of osteoarthritis as follows:
Control of pain and inflammation:
- Observe compliance with intake of pain medications, as prescribed. Individuals could be prescribed a wide range of pain medications, depending on the intensity of pain and severity of symptoms.
- In the initial stages of arthritis, individuals could be prescribed over-the-counter pain killers, such as, Tylenol.
- As the condition progresses and worsens, individuals could be prescribed stronger and higher dose of anti-inflammatory medications, such as, Advil, naproxen, celecoxib, and meloxicam.
- In severe conditions, individuals could be prescribed narcotic pain killers, such as, hydrocodone and oxycodone. Individuals could as well be considered for steroid injections into the joint for control of inflammation.
Supplements:
- OTC supplements for Vitamin C and glucosamine can help with repair of the damaged joint tissues, thus contributing to improved pain control.
- If you are not on any of these supplements, you can check with your physician for a recommendation on the same.
Lose weight:
- Individuals, especially when overweight, can try losing a few pounds. This can help reduce stress on the affected joint, which contributes to improvement in pain control.
- Obese individuals can seek a nutritionist consult for recommendation regarding their ideal weight for their height and limitations on daily calorie allowance.
- Individuals with limitations on daily calorie allowance must comply with the recommendations made, which can help achieve target weight and thereby, improved pain control.
Joint repair & replacement:
- If the above measures fail to control the pain to the individual’s comfort level, surgical interventions for joint repair and replacement could be considered.
