Arthritis Management
Non-Pharmacological Treatment
These recommendations are presented in abbreviated form. Readers should refer to the text of the guideline document1 for a detailed discussion of each of the following topics.
Dietary Supplements and Nutrition
-
Adults with OA should be encouraged to take 1,500 mg of oral glucosamine sulfate daily.
-
People with arthritis should be advised to maintain an ideal body weight and adhere to a balanced diet containing adequate amounts of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Adults should lose weight if their body mass index (BMI) is greater than 30, and follow a weight management program. Children should lose weight if their BMI is greater than the 95th percentile for children of the same age and gender.
Exercise and Physical Modalities in the Management of Arthritis Pain
-
All individuals should be encouraged and supported to participate in the minimum level of physical activity recommended by the U.S. Surgeon General (1996). Participate in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week.
-
People with OA, RA, or juvenile chronic arthritis (JCA) who have difficulty in maintaining minimum levels of physical activity should be referred to appropriate conditioning exercise opportunities in the community and their progress followed routinely by the healthcare team. When necessary to prepare an individual for successful participation in a community-based or self-directed exercise program, referral should be made for physical therapy and/or occupational therapy to evaluate and reduce impairments in range of motion, flexibility, strength, and endurance and instruct in joint protection strategies.
References:
1. Available at: http://www.guidelines.gov/ and originally adapted from: Simon LS, Lipman AG, Jacox AK et al Pain in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile chronic arthritis.2nd ed. Glenview (IL): American Pain Society (APS); 2002. 179 p. (Clinical practice guideline; no. 2).