chondroitin and Weight-Loss

Topics: Cell- and Tissue-Based Therapy; Chondroitin; Glucosamine; Humans; Osteoarthritis, Knee; Physical Therapy Modalities; Self Care; Treatment Outcome; Weight Loss

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and the leading cause of disability among older adults in the United States. Treatment options such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most widely used agents to manage mild-to-moderate pain. Treatment with tramadol or opioids is usually reserved for severe pain associated with OA. These agents do not come without risk, especially for older adults. Patient-specific parameters and comorbid conditions must be considered when evaluating treatment options for older adults. This article reviews pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches to the management of OA in older adults.

Topics: Acetaminophen; Aged; Algorithms; Analgesics; Analgesics, Opioid; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Antidepressive Agents; Chondroitin; Complementary Therapies; Geriatric Assessment; Glucocorticoids; Glucosamine; Humans; Hyaluronic Acid; Motor Activity; Occupational Therapy; Osteoarthritis; Patient Education as Topic; Physical Therapy Modalities; Self-Help Devices; Tramadol; Weight Loss

Topics: Adipose Tissue; Athletic Performance; Choline; Chondroitin; Cissus; Dietary Supplements; Glucosamine; Humans; Muscle, Skeletal; Picolinic Acids; Plant Extracts; Weight Loss

Topics: Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Antirheumatic Agents; Arthroscopy; Chondroitin; Cyclooxygenase 2 Inhibitors; Exercise Therapy; Glucosamine; Humans; Hyaluronic Acid; Osteoarthritis; Osteotomy; Weight Loss

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common articular disease, and it continues to be a major public health problem related to pain, disability, loss of time from work, and economics. Most patients with OA seek medical attention because of pain. In the past few years, changes in the treatment of OA have been substantial. More effective nonnarcotic analgesics, cyclooxygenase-2-specific inhibitors, nutraceuticals, and intra-articular hyaluronates are some of the new medications and agents that are now available. The understanding and use of nonpharmacological interventions, including patient education, exercise programs, and weight reduction when appropriate, have also improved. Relief of pain and restoration of function can be accomplished in many patients, particularly with an integrated approach. This article focuses on medical treatment approaches for OA, both pharmacological and nonpharmacological.

Topics: Aged; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Chondroitin; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; Drug Combinations; Exercise Therapy; Glucosamine; Humans; Osteoarthritis; Patient Education as Topic; Quality of Life; Weight Loss

Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common disease that causes significant disability. Most patients can be managed conservatively in the outpatient setting. A small minority require surgery. The cornerstones of treatment are weight loss, exercise and analgesia. Walking aids, medial patellar taping, acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation are useful management adjuncts. Current evidence does not support routine prescription of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements. Early consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon should be made when conservative measures fail.

Topics: Acetaminophen; Acupuncture Therapy; Analgesia; Chondroitin; Chondroitin Sulfates; Dietary Supplements; Exercise; Female; Gait; Glucosamine; Humans; Injections, Intra-Articular; Knee Joint; Osteoarthritis, Knee; Outpatients; Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation; Weight Loss