Orthop Nurs. 2001 Nov-Dec; 20(6): 13-8; quiz 18-20.

First-line treatment for osteoarthritis. Part 2: Nonpharmacologic interventions and evaluation.

Baird CL.

Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA. clbaird@nursing.purdue.edu

Because of the chronic nature of osteoarthritis, nonpharmacologic interventions provide the client with self-care strategies that may lessen pain, improve physical functioning, and increase independence and sense of control. Nonpharmacologic interventions include exercise, rest and joint protection, heat and cold, hydrotherapy, therapeutic touch, acupuncture/acupressure, biofeedback, hypnotherapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, activity and home maintenance modification, nutrition, and transportation interventions. Most of these therapies are very useful for nurses as independent interventions. Suggestions for evaluation of interventions are made.