Osteoarthritis

Question 1

Symptoms of osteoarthritis

Answer 1

Deep, achy joint pain - worse after prolonged use

Joint stiffness during rest, swelling, tenderness

Question 2

Signs of osteoarthritis

Answer 2

Crepitus

Reduced range of movement

Question 3

Pathophysiology of osteoarthritis

Answer 3

Progressive degeneration of the articulate cartilage, leads to a narrowed joint space and mechanical grinding of the bones.

Occurs in larger joints eg. Hip and knee, and small joints of hands.

Question 4

Risk factors for osteoarthritis

Answer 4

Age
Obesity
Post menopause in women

Question 5

Investigation of osteoarthritis

Answer 5

X-Rays: show narrowed joint space, bony sclerosis and cyst formation

Question 6

Management of osteoarthritis

Answer 6

Lifestyle advice: regular gentle exercise eg. Swimming/cycling, weight loss, physical therapy

NSAIDs, paracetamol, opioids

Joint replacement surgery