Although it is usually not difficult to diagnose OA, no single test can pinpoint the disease. Most doctors use a combination of patient history and exam, and x-rays to diagnose the disease and rule out other causes for the symptoms. Treatment of osteoarthritis focuses on decreasing pain and improving joint function. This can be done in a number of different ways. Adjusting the work area or substituting tasks that produce less stress on joints can help reduce shock.
Research shows that one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis is exercise.
It can improve mood and outlook, decrease pain, increase joint flexibility, improve the heart and blood flow, maintain or decrease weight, and promote general well being. The amount and form of exercise will depend on which joints are involved, how stable the joints are, and whether a joint replacement has already been done. Overweight people can lessen the shock on their joints by losing weight. Knees, for example, sustain an impact three to five times the body weight when descending stairs. So a loss of five pounds can eliminate at least 15 pounds of stressful impact on the joint.