Consumer Information Center Osteoarthritis Hope for the

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Hope for the Future Research is opening up new avenues of treatment for people with osteoarthritis. A balanced, comprehensive approach is still the key to staying active and healthy with the disease. People with osteoarthritis should combine exercise, relaxation education, social support, and medicines in their treatment strategies. Meanwhile, as scientists unravel the complexities of the disease, new treatments and prevention methods should appear. They will improve the quality of life for people with osteoarthritis and their families.

Acknowledgements The NIAMS gratefully acknowledges the assistance of John Klippel, M.D., and Joan McGowan, Ph.D., NIAMS, NIH; Kenneth D. Brandt, M.D., Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis; Marc C. Hochberg, M.D., M.P.H., University of Maryland, Baltimore; and Roland Moskowitz, M.D., University Hospital of Cleveland, Ohio, in the preparation and review of this publication. Special thanks also go to the patients who reviewed this publication and provided valuable input. Debbie Novak of Johnson, Bassin, and Shaw, Inc. wrote this booklet.

Additional Resources National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NAMSIC) National Institutes of Health 1 AMS Circle Bethesda, MD 20892–3675 (301) 495–4484 or (877) 22-NIAMS (toll free) TTY: (301) 565–2966 Fax: (301) 718–6366 NIAMS Fast Facts–For health information that is available by fax 24 hours a day, call (301) 881–2731 from a fax machine telephone. World Wide Web address: http://www.nih.gov/niams/ This clearinghouse, a public service sponsored by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), provides information about various forms of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. The clearinghouse distributes patient and professional education materials and also refers people to other sources of information. American College of Rheumatology 1800 Century Place, Suite 250 Atlanta, GA 30345 (404) 633–3777 Fax: (404) 633–1870 World Wide Web address: http://www.rheumatology.org/ This association provides referrals to rheumatologists and physical and occupational therapists who have experience working with people who have osteoarthritis. The organization also provides educational materials and guidelines.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 6300 North River Road Rosemont, IL 60018-4262 (847) 823–7186 (800) 346–2267 Fax: (847) 823-8125 World Wide Web address: http://www.aaos.org/ The academy provides education and practice management services for orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals. It also serves as an advocate for improved patient care and informs the public about the science of orthopaedics. The orthopaedist's scope of practice includes disorders of the body's bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Arthritis Foundation 1330 West Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 872–7100 (800) 283–7800, or call your local chapter (listed in the telephone directory) World Wide Web address: http://www.arthritis.org/ This is the main voluntary organization devoted to arthritis. The foundation publishes a free pamphlet on osteoarthritis and a magazine for members on arthritis and related conditions. They also provide up-to-date information on research and treatment, nutrition, alternative therapies, and self-management strategies. Chapters nationwide offer exercise programs, classes, support groups, physician referral services, and free literature.

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