Is there a test for osteoarthritis?

There is no single test for osteoarthritis. Your doctor may do the following to see if you have the condition:

• Ask for a medical history, and give you a physical exam.
• Order images of your joint using x-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Run blood tests to rule out other causes for symptoms.
• Take joint fluid samples to look for other causes of joint pain, such as infection or gout.

How is osteoarthritis treated?

The goals of your treatment for osteoarthritis include:

• Reducing pain and other symptoms.
• Improving joint function.
• Stopping the disease from getting worse.
• Maintaining your quality of life.

Treating osteoarthritis usually includes:

• Exercising, which can lower joint pain and stiffness and increase flexibility and muscle strength. Speak to your doctor or physical therapist about a safe, well-rounded exercise program. Remember to start any exercise program slowly and take the time to adjust to the new level of activity.
• Managing your weight to help lower the stress on joints. In addition, if you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to lower pain, prevent more injury, and improve movement in your joints. This can be especially helpful for your knees or hips.
• Using braces or orthotics that your doctor prescribes and that are fitted by a health care professional.

Some people may need medications to help manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Your doctor may recommend surgery if all other treatments tried have not helped your osteoarthritis. However, surgery is not right for everyone, and your doctor will decide if it’s best for you.

Who treats osteoarthritis?

Treating osteoarthritis requires a team effort involving you and several types of health care professionals. These may include:

• Rheumatologists, who specialize in arthritis and other diseases of the bones, joints, and muscles.
• Chiropractors, who focus treatment on the relationship between the body's structure, mainly the spine, and its functioning.
• Dietitians, who teach about nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight.
• Nurse educators, who help you understand your condition and help start treatment plans.
• Occupational therapists, who teach ways to protect joints, minimize pain, perform activities of daily living, and conserve energy.
• Orthopaedic surgeons, who specialize in treatment and surgery for bone and joint diseases.
• Physiatrists (physical, medicine, and rehabilitation specialists), who supervise exercise programs.
• Physical therapists, who help improve joint function.
• Primary care doctors, such as a family physician or internal medicine specialist, who coordinates care between the different health providers and treats other problems as they arise.
• Psychologists or social workers, who help with psychosocial challenges caused by medical conditions.