How to Treat Arthritis in the Elderly
Disease description:
Recently, my joints have been constantly painful, especially after physical activities, and going up and down stairs has become very difficult. Sometimes the joints also swell, significantly affecting my life. I would like to know how exactly should osteoarthritis in the elderly be treated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Osteoarthritis in the elderly, commonly referred to as degenerative joint disease, is a prevalent condition primarily affecting middle-aged and older individuals. The following are several common treatment approaches:
1. Pharmacological treatment: Commonly used medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen capsules, diclofenac sodium enteric-coated capsules, and celecoxib capsules, which can help relieve pain and swelling. Additionally, aminoglycoside medications like glucosamine sulfate may aid in the repair and regeneration of cartilage matrix. Intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate can reduce pain and improve joint range of motion.
2. Physical therapy: Treatments such as heat therapy, electrotherapy, infrared therapy, and magnetotherapy can promote local blood circulation in the joints, reduce inflammation and swelling, and alleviate pain. Acupuncture, massage, ultrashort wave therapy, and traction may also achieve similar effects.
3. Surgical treatment: Patients with severe symptoms that cannot be controlled by the aforementioned methods may need to consider surgical interventions such as arthroscopic surgery, cartilage repair procedures, or joint replacement surgery. Joint replacement is an effective treatment for end-stage osteoarthritis and can significantly improve the patient's quality of life.
4. Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a positive and optimistic mindset, avoiding prolonged static postures, engaging regularly in gentle joint exercises, and avoiding excessive use of affected joints can also help prevent and alleviate arthritis.
