Most common musculoskeletal disorder affecting Australians and is the leading cause of long term pain and disability among the elderly. 1.4 million Australians suffer from OA.
Currently 19,000 Hip and 20,000 knee replacements are performed for OA in Australia each year.
80% of people over 65 have radiographic evidence of OA.
10% Males and 18% Females have symptomatic OA (F>M).Two Basic Types:
- PRIMARY/ IDIOPATHIC: Chronic degenerative disorder related to but not caused by aging.
- SECONDARY: Could be due to any of the following
- Injury to joints (ACL, Meniscus…)
- Diabetes.
- Obesity.
- Congenital disorders of joints.
- Inflammatory diseases (Perthes’ disease, RA, Gout)
- Septic arthritis (infection of a joint)
Treatment:
Pharmacological- Paracetamol, NSAIDS, Cox-2 inhibitors, Glucosamine sulfate and Chondroitin sulphate.
Non-Pharmacological/ PHYSIOTHERAPY
1) Education.
2) Exercise: Low impact exercises beneficial, Hydrotherapy, walking, aerobic fitness, theraband exercises, Tai-chi, whole body vibrations.
3) Manual therapy + strengthening
4) Acupuncture
5) Electrotherapy: T.E.N.S beneficial
6) Podiatry: Suitable orthotics.
