Introduction

vii

PART ONE

THE BACKGROUND TO OSTEOARTBRITIS

1

What is Osteoarthritis?

3

2

Why do We Get Osteoarthritis?

9

3

Joints and Osteoarthritis

17

4

What are the Symptoms and Signs Associated with Osteoarthritis?

31

5

How is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

39

6

The Long-Term Outlook for Osteoarthritis

47

PART TWO

THE MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

7

The Management of Osteoarthritis

57

8

Which Health Professionals are Involved in Osteoarthritis Management?

69

9

Exercise

79

10

Diet

91

11

Glucosamine, Vitamins, and Osteoarthritis

103

12

Medicines Used in Osteoarthritis

109

13

Injection Therapies

119

14

Pacing and Maintaining Activities

125

15

Device Use and Other Therapies

135

16

Thoughts and Emotions

141

17

Surgery

155

18

Complementary Therapies

171

Useful Addresses

183

Glossary

187

Index

193