title: Treating osteoarthritis. Maximising outcomes.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Osteoarthritis is a common cause of disability in our community, particularly in the elderly.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The aim of treatment in those with osteoarthritis should be the relief of pain and maintenance of function with minimal risk of side effects.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Non pharmacological therapy, tailored to the individual, should be the first line treatment of osteoarthritis patients. Paracetamol may be added if necessary. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should only be used after assessing the patient for the risk of side effects. If the risk is high then alternative therapy should be sought, or measures taken to minimise the risk.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: McColl
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000700:Analgesics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000897:Anti-Ulcer Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D019643:Arthroplasty, Replacement; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D006801:Humans; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000628:therapy*
chemical_list: D000700:Analgesics; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D000897:Anti-Ulcer Agents