Osteoarthritis

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

1. Clinical overview

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder causing pain, stiffness, and loss of function, with treatment aimed at preserving mobility and limiting analgesic harm over time.

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 diclofenac is a common first-line medication for knee or hand osteoarthritis.
Oral options may include naproxen, ibuprofen, celecoxib, meloxicam, acetaminophen, or duloxetine depending on joint pattern and comorbidity.
Intra-articular corticosteroid injections may help selected flares, while chronic opioid escalation should generally be avoided.

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

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