Osteoarthritis: key features and how to support patients with the condition

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a common chronic health condition that is characterised by joint pain and restricted movement. The main focus of treatment is on non-pharmacological interventions including education, exercise and weight reduction, if needed. This article explains what osteoarthritis is, how it presents, how it is diagnosed and the role of the nurse in supporting patients to manage their condition.

This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

In this article…

• The physiological changes to a joint affected by osteoarthritis

• The main features and symptoms of osteoarthritis

• Why non-pharmacological treatment is usually the preferred option

Key points

Osteoarthritis is a common cause of chronic pain and disability among adults

Incidence of osteoarthritis is increasing because of an ageing population and rising levels of obesity

Diagnosis is informed by age, clinical history and clinical symptoms

Core interventions include education, exercise and, if applicable, weight reduction