Embargoed for A.M. Release, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2000
For more information, contact: Paula Poda, (847) 384-4034, [email protected]Joanne Swanson, (847) 384-4035, [email protected]
Variety of management strategieshelp people with arthritis
NEW YORK--If you are one of the estimated 36 million people in the U.S. who suffer from osteoarthritis, you are aware of its painful symptoms and its effect on your quality of life.
"Arthritis pain often is treatable with a variety of methods," said Thomas P. Sculco, MD, professor of clinical surgery (orthopaedics), Weill Medical College of Cornell University, at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons' 10th annual Orthopaedics Update. "Many people will get relief without surgery."
COX-2 inhibitors, a new generation of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used by people who cannot tolerate traditional NSAIDs or use them because they are taking blood thinners like Coumadin. These drugs, available by prescription, possess many of the same properties of NSAIDs but do not irritate the stomach when taken over long periods of time or in high doses.
Additional arthritis management strategies include exercise and weight loss programs, special knee braces designed to relieve painful pressure, and injections of lubricating fluid into the affected joint.
Supplements, like chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine, may also be beneficial in managing arthritis. Classified as nutritional supplements by the Food and Drug Administration, they have not undergone the strict testing required for pharmaceuticals. They appear to have a mild anti-inflammatory effect, although claims of repairing or regrowing cartilage have not yet been substantiated. Dr. Sculco recommended that anyone interested in using these supplements consult their physician beforehand.
"All these strategies can help a person with arthritis improve their quality of life," Dr. Sculco said. "An orthopaedic surgeon can help design a customized arthritis management program for someone that may incorporate any or all of these approaches."
An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical doctor with extensive training in the diagnosis and nonsurgical as well as surgical treatment of the musculoskeletal system including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.
The 24,500-member American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (www.aaos.org) is a not-for-profit organization that provides education programs for orthopaedic surgeons, allied health professionals and the public. An advocate for improved patient care, the Academy supports the Bone and Joint Decade, 2000-2010, a global initiative to raise awareness of musculoskeletal health, stimulate research and improve people's quality of life.
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