Question

Mr. F is a 38-year-old man in overall good health who has been complaining about an aching pain in his knees when working around the house and often when simply walking. He has noticed that his knees feel “hard” and tight. His history indicates that he has always been involved in athletics and was on the college football team, but recently family responsibilities and work have not made it easy for him to exercise.

1.   Relate Mr. F’s case history to the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis. (See Osteoarthritis.)

2.   How do anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics help Mr. F deal with this form of arthritis? Why is moderate, non–weight-bearing exercise recommended? (See Osteoarthritis—Pathophysiology, pe, Treatment.)

3.   What is the probable prognosis for Mr. F?

Answer 1

1. Osteoarthritis is a musculoskeletal condition affecting the bones. It causes degradation of the cartilage and the underlying bone. It presents with joint ache and stiffness. Swelling around the joint and decreased ROM are also seen. Knee OA can lead to difficulty in walking and climbing stairs. All these symptoms are exhibited by Mr. F thus we can say its knee osteoarthritis.

2. Anti inflammatory drugs and analgesics will help reduce the swelling and pain of knee joint. With reduction in swelling, joint stiffness also reduces. Moderate non weight bearing exercises like isometris will help the patient to reduce swelling, joint stiffness, increase ROM and strength of the joint. Weight bearing exercise are avoided to eliminate excess load and pressure to the joint which may lead to further wear and tear of joint.

3. Mr. F can have sufficient reduction in symptoms through proper medications and regular exercise. He can live a completely healthy functional life if he follows proper treatment, lifestyle modifications, exercises and other medical advices.