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Non-surgical treatment of osteoarthritis-related pain in the elderly

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Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA), the third most common diagnosis in the elderly [1], causes significant pain leading to disability and decreased quality of life in subjects 65 years and older [2]. Traditionally, clinicians have relied heavily on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to treat the pain of OA, as numerous studies have proven these agents to be effective. The cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic toxicities of NSAIDs have limited their use, particularly in the elderly. Acetaminophen has been recommended as initial therapy due to relative safety. Several other topical, oral and intra-articular agents are available today, with use limited by efficacy and side effect profiles. Many non-pharmacologic approaches are available but underused, and may be attractive choices to avoid poly-pharmacy in older patients. We will attempt to highlight the evidence behind available non-surgical therapies for OA while paying specific attention to issues in geriatric patients.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Rush University Medical Center, 1611 West Harrison Street, Suite 510, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA

    Carla R. Scanzello

  2. Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of New Mexico Hospital, 1 UNM, MSC 10–5550, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA

    Rabeea Choudhary

  3. Division of Rheumatology, SSM St. Charles Clinic Medical Group, 1475 Kisker, Suite 200, St. Charles, MO, 63304, USA

    Saulat Mushtaq

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  1. Saulat Mushtaq
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Correspondence to Carla R. Scanzello.

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Mushtaq, S., Choudhary, R. & Scanzello, C.R. Non-surgical treatment of osteoarthritis-related pain in the elderly. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 4, 113–122 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-011-9084-9

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