Joints may be difficult to move, but they usually are not completely stiff . Because the symptoms of osteoarthritis are nonspecific and cause few laboratory abnormalities, most physicians take a complete physical history when assessing a patient with symptoms that may indicate the disease. The history includes evaluation of the severity and the duration of pain, presence of inflammation, methods helpful in relieving symptoms, and the impact symptoms are having on the patient's daily activities. A thorough history will help distinguish between osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritis or other diseases. A good treatment program should help sufferers decrease pain and stiffness, improve mobility, and maintain everyday activities.
Treatment is based on disease severity, symptoms, other health-related problems, age, and lifestyle.
The appropriate combination of caregivers is based on the extent of debilitation. Because each person with osteoarthritis responds differently to treatment, ongoing communication between health care providers and patients is essential to successfully treat the disease. Pain relief in patient with osteoarthritis is the most important therapeutic goal. Control of pain allows for continuation of nonpharmacologic treatment and increased function for the patient. Analgesics Analgesics are used to relieve pain quickly, but they do not reduce inflammation or swelling.