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Osteoarthritis / Osteoarthrosis / Degenerative Disease | |
Treatment of Osteoarthritis - a 'Multidimensional' approach |
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Osteoarthritis demands a combined modality approach to restore the patient his/her near normal life and improve the quality of living. It requires the co-operation of the various medical and paramedical personnel involved in he treatment process. Medical management of osteoarthritis The health status of the patient is assessed drugs are given to reduce the pain and the swelling. Injection can also be given into the joints for the same (hydrocortisone injections). Calcium supplements are also prescribed in case of calcium deficiency. Role of surgery in Osteoarthritis If the disease is severe and when the medical treatment and physiotherapy does not yield any relief, surgery can be considered as a treatment option. The various surgical procedures available for treatment are Replacement Arthroplasty It is a surgical procedure that involves removal of the affected part of the joint and replacement with suitable artificial joint structures. It is of two types. Hemi Replacement Arthroplasty When a part of the joint is affected, it is removed and replaced by suitable artificial joint structure. Total Replacement Arthroplasty When the whole of the joint is affected, it is completely removed and replaced by suitable artificial joint structure. Osteotomy The term 'Osteo' refers to bone, 'tomy' refers to 'to cut'. It is a surgical procedure which involves the opening and cutting of the affected part of a bone and removing it. Nutrition & Diet in treatment of Osteoarthritis Obesity causes strain on the weight bearing joints and induces osteoarthritis. Balanced diet with adequate supplementation of calcium in the diet can be helpful to patients. It is also advisable to avoid foods rich in fat. These are the general principles of diet therapy. However the diet regime of patients can be individualized depending on the clinical scenario. What is the role of Physiotherapy in Osteoarthritis? Physiotherapy care reduces and relieves pain, joint stiffness and muscle tightness. It also strengthens the weak muscles and helps in improving the mobility. The following measures are usually adopted to comfort the patient. Wax Bath A warm cloth (or) pad dipped in a paraffin wax is placed on the joint area to reduce pain and stiffness of the joint. Hot Packs A specialized fabric pack immersed in hot water is placed on the affected area to give relief to the patient. Care should be taken to ensure that the warmth is bearable by the patient. Ice Application Ice packs are applied over the affected area to relieve pain and loosen the tight muscles. Short Wave Diathermy The warmth obtained from short wave diathermy current is effective in reducing arthritic pain and muscle tightness. Exercises Exercises strengthen the muscles and joint structures and improve the physical fitness. Occupational Therapy in Osteoarthritis The role of Occupational Therapy is to train the patient to perform his daily activities, independently with or with out the use of assistive devices (splints) in case of disablement. It would be helpful to follow the precautions mentioned below in this regard. |
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Posted by:
narinderksingh
Posted on: 09/22/2009 my wife has osteoarthritis. where she can get best treatment |
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Posted by:
anirudhsharma04
Posted on: 02/19/2009 dear sir's my name is anirudh sharma. my mother has arthritis. what is the treatment of arthritis |
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strengthening exercises for quadriceps and hamstrings.
hot modalities