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Osteoarthritis Case Study

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Impaired Mobility Related to Osteoarthritis
Ashley B. Douglass, Aspen Loukas, Abbie Massingill, Ashley Montee, and Madajah Simmons
Amarillo College

Introduction Osteoarthritis is a non-inflammatory, degenerative disease of the joints. It is the most common rheumatic disorder in older adults and results in degeneration of the protective cartilage over time. This disease is characterized by chronic pain, stiffness and functional impairment. The joints most commonly affected are those that are weight bearing; including the hips, knees and spine. This disorder is asymmetrical and localized to a specific joint. Therefore, functional impairment and quality of life are primary concerns. While there is no definitive cure for this …show more content…

Management of osteoarthritis includes; diet and weight loss, joint rest and avoidance of joint overuse, low-impact exercises, use of heat and orthotic devices, and pharmacologic therapy. The most modifiable risk factor is also the main reason for noncompliance; weight. In formulating the plan of care, the nurse must realize that weight loss is physically and psychologically tiring for a patient. The nurse must be non-judgmental, empathetic, and provide support and encouragement. Non-compliance with weight loss will lead to safety issues when the patient becomes functionally …show more content…

The ideal team includes: a physical therapist, dietitian, occupational therapist, rheumatologist, personal trainer, nurse educator, and a social worker. A physical therapist would provide the patient with range of motion exercises to improve muscle strength, recommend therapeutic modalities, as well as recommend activities that will help decrease pressure on the affected joints. Because weight loss is crucial to managing and preventing further progression, it is important to incorporate a dietitian and personal trainer. Dietitians are beneficial for creating personalized meal plans and suggesting nutritious foods that will help aid in weight reduction, while personal trainers create exercise regimens that are specific to the patients’ disease process. In addition, an occupational therapist will assist the patient in performing tasks without causing further pain or discomfort. Education on joint protection techniques include; using proper body mechanics when lifting, distributing pressure to other joints, and the importance of using orthotic devices. A rheumatologist would also need to be included for their specialization in rheumatic disorders. Lastly, a nurse educator and social worker would be beneficial. A nurse educator would help educate the patient on the disease and treatment plan, while a social worker would help assist the patient in dealing with social challenges caused

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