Osteoarthritis of the knee and hip: Part 2 - Keys to successful nondrug therapy

For overweight patients with osteoarthritis, even small amounts of weight loss can help prevent the onset or progression of disease, especially in the knee, and also can decrease osteoarthritic symptoms. Assistive devices, such as canes, crutches, or walkers, during ambulation can help diminish forces acting across lower extremity joints and provide stability. Orthotic devices, including braces and splints, may relieve pain and enhance joint stability; in general, the knee is more amenable to such intervention than the hip. Although occupational therapy is most useful for patients with osteoarthritis of the hand, those with other areas of joint involvement also can benefit. The goals of such therapy are to improve the patient's ability to perform daily activities, prevent loss of function, and facilitate the development of problem-solving skills.