Medical management of osteoarthritis

Abstract

Histologic and x-ray evidence of osteoarthritis may develop in the 20 or 30 year old patient, but stiffness, aching and crepitation usually do not appear until he is middle-aged. The disease progresses slowly, responds to treatment and a modified regimen, and rarely causes severe disability. Treatment includes correcting mechanical factors, minimizing physical stress on joints, and relieving symptoms.