Non-pharmacological approaches for the treatment of osteoarthritis

Abstract

For the most part, non-pharmacological approaches are recommended for osteoarthritis treatment. This recommendation is based mainly on biomechanical observations leading to a modulation of the symptomatic loading joint. Approaches include orthoses, insoles, exercise, diet and patient education. The approach used for each osteoarthritis site must be adapted for the individual patient. Here, we use an evidence-based approach, including the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) and Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) recommendations, to summarise the non-pharmacological treatments available for knee, hip and hand osteoarthritis and to help the physician in daily clinical practice.