Osteoarthritis: Overview for Clinicians

Non-Pharmaceutical Therapy for Osteoarthritis

Lifestyle

• Exercise
• Maintain ideal weight

Nutrition

• Anti-inflammatory diet possibly beneficial. Evidence limited.
• Consider omega-3 fatty acid supplementation. More research needed.

Mind-Body

• Useful adjuncts to treatment: biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, guided imagery, self-hypnosis, journaling, meditation/mindfulness based stress reduction.

Acupuncture

• Mounting evidence for therapeutic value.

Manipulative Therapies

• Research showing benefit beginning to emerge.

Dietary Supplements

• Glucosamine 1500 mg daily in 3 divided doses
• Chondroitin Sulfate 1000-1200 mg daily single or divided doses
• S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) 200 mg tid; may take up to 1600 mg qd
• Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM) 500-1000 mg two to three times daily
• Herbal Anti-Inflammatories (see Pearls for Clinicians on Osteoarthritis for dosage, efficacy, and precautions):
  • Boswellia
  • Cat’s Claw
  • Devil’s Claw
  • Ginger
  • Phytodolor
  • Stinging Nettle
  • Turmeric
  • Willow Bark
• Other supplements: see Pearls for Clinicians on Osteoarthritis for supplements with future promise.

Please see the downloads section for more detailed clinician and patient information.

Disclaimer: This information is for general education. Please work with your health care practitioner to use it in the best way possible to promote your health.