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
