Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of joints causing pain, swelling and stiffness. In severe cases patients present with synovitis and fluid collection in joints It can affect big as well as small joints.
Medications:
- Tab. Xkyaa BD (Paracetamol 1000 mg) 1 tablet twice a day for 1 week (during flare ups).
- Tab. Limcee (Vitamin C 500 mg) 1 tablet once a day for 1 week.
- Tab. Lubrijoint Plus (Glucosamine 750 mg, Methyl sulfonyl methane 200 mg) 1 tablet twice a day for 3 to 6 months.
- Tab. Supracal (Calcium citrate 1000 mg, Cholecalciferol 200 IU, Elemental Magnesium 100 mg, Elemental Zinc 4 mg) 1 tablet once a day for 8 weeks.
- Tab. FDC D3 60K (Cholecalciferol 60,000 IU) 1 capsule once a week for 8 weeks for vitamin D deficiency.
- Topical ointment Orthosenz (Capsaicin 0.025%, Gabapentin 8%, Methyl Salicylate 5%, Diclofenac 1% w/w) to be applied locally at bed time.
General advice:
- Regular exercises – swimming or walking in the swimming pool, aquarobics rather than weight bearing exercises.
- Maintain healthy body weight.
- Ensure suitable footwear.
- Consider using external joint support to reduce strain during regular activities.
- Consider ultrasound therapy for superficial joints.
Investigations:
- X ray of the affected joint – to identify osteophytes, reduced joint space.
- Ultrasound scan of small joints – to identify fluid collection and synovitis.
Referral:
Refer to orthopaedic surgeon in resistant cases and severe functional disability.