Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is usually managed by your GP. You might be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon if your GP thinks you might benefit from surgery, such as a joint replacement.

A rheumatologist may be involved if your GP or hospital specialist is not certain about the cause of your pain.

We do not routinely see patients to help manage established osteoarthritis. Before that stage there are other important approaches to self-management described below.

Exercise: Exercise can help improve the movement of a joint and strengthen the muscles that move and support them. General physical activity which raises the heart and breathing rate is called aerobic exercise. This type of exercise burns off calories, helps improve sleep and can reduce pain. There is good evidence that exercise does not harm arthritic joints.

Weight: Being overweight can affect the joints in two main ways: firstly, the excess load on the joints can cause pain and discomfort. Secondly, a number of chemical messengers produced in fat can affect joint tissues and increase sensitivity to pain. Weight loss can improve the function of joints and reduce pain, as well as reduce your risk of developing other conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Well-being: In the short term, pain is a warning sign. Your natural reaction might be to protect the affected area. However, long-term rest, reduced activity and support of a joint or body area is often not helpful. Sometimes people get into a frame of mind which encourages them to avoid tasks or things they normally enjoy because they tend to increase pain levels.

After a time, lack of use leads to weakening of the muscles, stiffening of joints and our nerves to those areas become more sensitive. Also, as we become less fit, we tire more easily and become more prone to strains and sprains, resulting in further pain. This can easily become a vicious circle – leading to frustration, worry and low moods.

Strategies to deal with the challenges of long term pain:

• maintain your social contacts with friends and family
• remain as active as possible
• try setting some goals and pacing yourself
• relaxation techniques can reduce your pain and encourage a sense of well-being. Try mindfulness exercises. 

Complementary and alternative remedies: Several complementary medicines and nutritional supplements might help osteoarthritis symptoms, such as pain and stiffness. There is some evidence of benefit but many questions remain unanswered regarding whether to take some, all, for how long and for what type of osteoarthritis.

Supplements often tried include glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), turmeric, extracts of Boswellia Serrata and avocado-soya bean unsaponifiables (ASU).

Footwear, insoles and splints: Footwear may need to be adapted to accommodate arthritis in the ankles, midfoot or toes. For example, you may need a different size or width fitting. Some people need insoles to correct foot deformities and advice from a chiropodist or podiatrist could be useful. Splints can be used to support the work done by hand joints, such as the wrist and base of the thumb.

We produce a wide range of leaflets which provide information about our services and about the treatment you might receive in our clinics or during your stay in hospital. 

We also produce these in different formats including large print, please contact the department you are visiting for more information.

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We have a wide range of videos which provide information about our services and about the treatment you might receive in our clinics or during your stay in hospital. 

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Further information about management and referral pathways for osteoarthritis can be found on the Devon formulary website.