There are ways you can help osteoarthritis treatment. Lifestyle changes can make a significant effect on your condition. Obesity affects the bio-mechanics of weight bearing joints. Maintaining the correct weight (BMI) will reduce progression of arthritis especially in the knees.

Maintain a good level of activity and improve on exercise. This improves the strength of the muscles and wasting, and has a positive benefit on osteoarthritic joints and general well being.

If there in deformity of the knees such as valgus then insoles and patello-femoral strapping will help. Using shoes with softer soles help spread the load and absorb impact. Use trainers when you can instead of hard sole shoes. Walking stick helps distribute the load.

It is important that osteoarthritic patients remain positive about their condition. A positive mental attitude is an invaluable tool when addressing the level of pain and disability.

A patient with osteoarthritis should pay particular attention to potential problems and hindrance at work, home or when going out and look at ways to overcome them.

Drug treatment of osteoarthritis have possible side effects and although maybe necessary, lifestyle modification is an important aspect of osteoarthritis treatment. In addition you feel a lot better being able to control your symptoms yourself rather than rely on drugs etc. as the only treatment for osteoarthritis.

Dr. Phil Hariram,

Arthritis Guide.