Osteoarthritis guide

Audience: Patients and providers
Status: Clinical guide · patient + provider
Last updated: 2026-03-09

1. What this disease is

Osteoarthritis guide is a common condition that benefits from early diagnosis, clear education, and a structured care plan.

2. Common causes and risk factors

• Degenerative joint disease with cartilage and subchondral bone changes.
• Risks: age, obesity, prior joint injury, repetitive load, biomechanics.

3. Typical symptoms

• Activity-related pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, functional limitation.

4. Diagnosis and evaluation

• Confirm diagnosis with guideline-based history, exam, and indicated testing.
• Screen for severity, complications, and high-risk comorbid conditions.
• Identify social or access barriers that could affect treatment success.

5. Treatment (non-pharmacologic)

• Exercise therapy and physical therapy are cornerstone treatments.
• Weight reduction for knee/hip OA and assistive devices as needed.
• Heat/cold and self-management education.

6. Treatment (pharmacologic)

• Topical NSAIDs first for many peripheral joints.
• Oral analgesics/NSAIDs when appropriate risk-benefit supports use.
• Intra-articular options for selected patients; avoid chronic opioid dependence pathways.

7. Monitoring and follow-up

• Pain/function goals, GI/renal/CV safety, mobility and quality-of-life metrics.

8. Practical counseling points

• Give patients a clear “what to do today / when to call / when to seek urgent care” plan.
• Use teach-back to confirm understanding of treatment goals and medication instructions.
• Simplify regimens when possible to improve adherence and outcomes.

9. Red flags and escalation

• Escalate care urgently for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
• Reassess diagnosis if expected response does not occur within the anticipated timeline.

10. Guideline references

• American College of Rheumatology OA guideline.
• OARSI recommendations.
• AAOS guidance for knee/hip OA care pathways.

Note: Educational guide only; not a substitute for individualized medical care.