Osteoarthritis Flashcards
What is arthritis?
joint disorder involving one or more joints
-over 100 different forms (OA, RA, psoriatic, septic, etc)
What is osteoarthritis?
chronic, progressive disorder characterized by the loss of articular cartilage primarily in hands, knees, hips, and spine
-not simply a degenerative joint disease
What is the most common form of arthritis?
osteoarthritis
What is the relationship between osteoarthritis and age?
prevalence increases with age
-peak onset is 50-60 yrs
Describe the etiology of osteoarthritis.
MOA not completely understood
-primary: no identifiable factor
-secondary: other metabolic factors identified
genetic component likely
joint trauma is a factor
-biochemical and mechanical changes –> loss of functionality –> changes in cartilage, joint capsule, subtracheal bone
Explain the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis.
imbalance between cartilage maintenance and destruction
-malfunction of chondrocyte (responsible for cartilage breakdown)
-end result is loss of proteoglycans and water
-formation of osteophytes (bony outgrowths)
role of inflammatory cytokines and MMP
What are the risk factors for osteoarthritis?
modifiable:
-obesity
-joint trauma
non-modifiable:
-age
-sex
-genetics
-joint deformity/misalignment
What are the clinical features of osteoarthritis?
gradual onset
initial absence of inflammation or joint swelling
mono-articular at first
pain and swelling with activity
no systemic sx
crepitus
tenderness
limited ROM
bony swelling
joint deformity
instability
Describe the pain associated with osteoarthritis.
stages:
-1: predictable, sharp pain brought on by activity
-2: becomes more constant; episodes of stiffness
-3: constant dull/ache; chronic stiffness; intense episodes
worse later afternoon/early evening
may have a neuropathic quality
Which joints are commonly affected by osteoarthritis?
PIP, DIP, thumb
cervical and lumbar spine
hip, knee, metotarsophalangeal
How is osteoarthritis often diagnosed?
often diagnosed without radiography or lab tests
in general, diagnosed if:
-persistent usage-related pain
-age > 45yrs
-little morning stiffness; more evening stiffness
When is additional testing needed for osteoarthritis?
younger individuals
atypical signs/sx
weight loss
What is the role of imaging in the diagnosis of osteoarthritis?
x-ray can be helpful for diagnostic clarification or monitoring
x-ray does not necessarily correlate with pain
What is the role of laboratory tests in the diagnosis of osteoarthritis?
perhaps to rule out other conditions
What are the treatment goals for osteoarthritis?
focus on specific lifestyle changes
reduce pain
maintain or improve joint mobility
limit functional disability
improve self-management
What are the 4 pillars of treatment for osteoarthritis?
- patient education
- rehabilitation
- medications
- referrals
What are some key points about osteoarthritis to educate patients about?
importance of exercise, joint protection, strengthening of muscles and supporting joint
importance of weight control
What is the role of exercise in osteoarthritis management?
introduction of at home or structured exercise is a key initial management strategy
-ROM, strengthening, aerobic activity
-physiotherapy
What amount of exercise is too much for osteoarthritis?
pain lasting > 2 hrs after exercise
What are some environmental adaptations that can be made for osteoarthritis?
raised toilet seats
supports, splints, braces
walkers, canes
supportive footwear
What is the most effective intervention for osteoarthritis?
non-pharmacological interventions
-most effective but underutilized
What is pharmacotherapy aimed at for osteoarthritis?
pain relief
How should pharmacotherapy be initiated for osteoarthritis?
monotherapy prn and add/substitute medications as needed
Which medications are options for osteoarthritis?
acetaminophen
topical NSAIDs
other topicals (capsaicin, A535)
oral NSAIDs
opioids
duloxetine
injectable joint replacement fluid
injectable glucocorticoids
What is the role of acetaminophen for osteoarthritis?
historically was the initial DOC
-recent evidence shows negligible, non sig clinical effect on pain
-guidelines do not strongly recommend anymore
1g QID (max 4g/24h), trial 2-3 wks at max dose then use LED
What is the MOA of acetaminophen?
acts within CNS, prevents PG synthesis by blocking COX
What are safety concerns of acetaminophen?
does NOT cause liver disease at normal doses
risk is from consuming from multiple sources
lower dose: liver dx, LBW, malnutrition, advanced age
What are the drug interactions of acetaminophen?
warfarin
isoniazid
continued alcohol use
Which NSAIDs are available as topicals?
diclofenac
ketoprofen