Arthritis

Consider Etoricoxib in the Management of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are common diseases worldwide, as well as leading causes of morbidity and disability that threaten human health.1,2 The primary objectives of treatment for patients with OA or RA are to control pain, improve function and reduce disability.3 Of all the strategies available for the treatment of OA and RA, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation.

Modern Medicine – Oct/Nov 2018

November 8, 2018 by Peter Arthritis Pain

Ankylosing Spondylitis: New Insights Into an old Disease

Ankylosing Spondylitis: New Insights Into an old Disease – MM1702

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease characterised by sacroiliitis and
extra-articular manifestations. Consider the diagnosis of AS in young patients with back pain and stiffness early
in the morning and after prolonged sitting. Appropriate initial investigations are a plain x-ray of the pelvis and
blood tests for HLA-B27, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein level. MRI can identify early
inflammatory bony changes not seen on x-ray and is prudent in patients with a clinical history consistent with
AS but a normal x-ray appearance. The mainstay of treatment for patients with AS remains NSAIDs and
stretching exercises. Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors are effective therapy for patients who fail to respond to firstline
treatments.

Modern Medicine – February 2017

February 17, 2017 by Peter Arthritis

Knee Osteoarthritis Management as a Chronic Disease

Knee Osteoarthritis Management as a Chronic Disease – MM1702

Comprehensive and multidisciplinary osteoarthritis (OA) management involves a combined approach of
nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatment to improve pain and function. All patients with OA should
engage in exercise and neuromuscular training. Weight reduction in overweight or obese patients can improve
physical function and pain by up to 50% in weight-bearing joints. Regular education/advice and monitoring are key
to patients’ long-term maintenance of physical activity and weight reduction. Choice of analgesia requires careful
consideration of risk versus benefit and proven efficacy. Arthroscopic surgery is not indicated for treating pain
associated with knee OA. Referral to an orthopaedic surgeon should be considered in patients with knee OA
who have severe symptoms and functional decline and have failed conservative management.

Modern Medicine – February 2017

February 17, 2017 by Peter Arthritis

Osteoarthritis Factors Associated with Pain and Implications for Therapy

Osteoarthritis Factors Associated with Pain and Implications for Therapy – MM1608

Osteoarthritis is an umbrella term for several processes that lead to pain and cartilage loss. X-rays give limited information and only provide marginal assistance at tailoring therapy for the individual. MRI has great potential in this regard but targeted trials have been few to date. Bone marrow lesions and cartilage defects have independent associations with pain in people with osteoarthritis. Obesity and weak muscles are also independently associated with pain in osteoarthritis; therefore, weight loss, strengthening and aerobic exercises help improve symptoms. Pain in osteoarthritis is modified by central factors such as depression, catastrophisation, self-efficacy and a positive attitude. Targeting subchondral bone has the most potential to modify osteoarthritis given the failure of most therapies aimed at cartilage.

Modern Medicine – August 2016

August 29, 2016 by Peter Arthritis Osteoarthritis Pain Rheumatology

Osteoarthritis Improvement Through Diet Alkalinisation

Osteoarthritis Improvement Through Diet Alkalinisation – MM1508

A study conducted at the MEDSAC hospital in Somerset West, Western Cape by researchers from the University of Stellenbosch, found that the dietary supplementation with A Vogel Multiforce (MF) Alkaline Powder significantly reduced pain, tenderness and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis of the hands.

Modern Medicine – August 2015

August 25, 2015 by Peter Arthritis Nutrition Pain

Rheumatoid Arthritis How can we Improve Remission?

Rheumatoid Arthritis How can we Improve Remission? – MM1507

Early diagnosis, referral and initiation of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy, along with regular disease monitoring and treating to target, are crucial to give patients with rheumatoid arthritis the best chance of achieving remission.

Modern Medicine – July 2015

July 30, 2015 by Peter Arthritis Rheumatology

Pain Management in Inflammatory Arthritis

Pain Management in Inflammatory Arthritis – MM1311

Many people with inflammatory arthritis continue to feel high levels of pain even when receiving effective treatments. Chronic pain is a complex biological process that cannot easily be remedied with a single pill. A multimodal approach is required.

Modern Medicine – November/December 2013

November 26, 2013 by Peter Arthritis Pain

Biological Therapies for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Non-TNF Inhibitors

Biological Therapies for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Non-TNF Inhibitors – MM1306

Non-tumour necrosis factor (non-TNF) inhibitors are highly effective biological therapies that have radically changed how rheumatoid arthritis is managed, helping patients achieve not only disease control but long-term remission.

Modern Medicine – June 2013

June 11, 2013 by Peter Arthritis Biologicals Pain Rheumatology

Arthritis

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