Osteoarthritis

🚨 Symptoms

Joint pain (worsens with activity, improves with rest), stiffness (morning, after inactivity), crepitus, bony enlargements, decreased range of motion

🔍 Causes

Age, obesity, joint injury, repetitive use, genetics, joint malalignment, metabolic disorders

💊 Treatment

Pain management (acetaminophen, NSAIDs), physical therapy, weight loss, assistive devices, intra-articular injections (corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid), joint replacement surgery

📝 Nursing Care

Pain assessment, promote activity within limits, teach joint protection techniques, assist with mobility, educate on medications

Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.