Arthritis

Most people will suffer from some form of OA as they grow older, and the joints naturally age through wear and tear. The most notable symptom, a dull aching feeling in the joints, usually appears toward the end of the day. The joints most commonly affected are in the hands, knees, fingers, spine, hips, neck, and feet. OA is a progressive disease and is not usually reversible. However, medication can relieve the symptoms.

Treatment for OA usually starts with a mild drug such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or aspirin taken every four to six hours as needed. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more severe, and a COX-2 inhibitor or a traditional NSAID may be substituted. The available COX-2 inhibitors are celecoxib (Celebrex) and rofecoxib (Vioxx). Likely choices among the NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), meloxicam (Mobic), or naproxen (Naprosyn).

If OA pain becomes especially severe, a doctor will sometimes prescribe a short course of narcotic pain relievers such as Tylenol with Codeine. When joints become inflamed, injections of corticosteroids such as cortisone or prednisone can be effective.

Finally, a real exercise program -- swimming, golf, walking, tennis, range-of-motion exercises (such as stretching) -- is as valuable as medication in keeping joints flexible and mobile. Weight loss to relieve extra stress on joints is also vital to OA care.

See Also: Rheumatoid | Arthritis | Gout

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