Managing Osteoarthritis in Primary Care (Repost)

Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of musculoskeletal disability, affecting five million people in Britain. By far the majority of cases are managed in the community. A considerable proportion of patients self-medicate, while others are treated by a GP and the primary health care team. This book provides an overview of the condition, its causes and natural history. Diagnosis of osteoarthritis is also explained including descriptions of joint examination, monitoring of progression and assessment of disability. The book advocates a practical approach to osteoarthritis care, the mainstay of which is patient education and symptom management. It provides advice on both pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management, the use of exercise, physiotherapy and weight loss where necessary. Topics discsussed also include: informing the patient of the disease and its prognosis; ways in which patients can adapt their home and their lifestyle to work within their physical capabilities; and surgery options.Content: Chapter 1 Introduction (pages 1–3): Chapter 2 Osteoarthritis, Aetiology and Epidemiology (pages 4–18): Chapter 3 Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis (pages 19–32): Chapter 4 Examination of Joints (pages 33–54): Chapter 5 Assessment of Osteoarthritis Including Hand Osteoarthritis (pages 55–65): Chapter 6 Management Options?Education, Behavioural and Environmental (pages 66–77): Chapter 7 Physical Therapy and Mechanical Interventions (pages 78–84): Chapter 8 Pharmacological Treatment (pages 85–96): Chapter 9 Surgical Options and Procedures (pages 98–114): Chapter 10 Long?Term Management and Referral (pages 115–120): Chapter 11 Economic and Research Considerations (pages 121–126):