Paracetamol in Relieving Arthritis Pain


A new study has discovered that paracetamol does little to ease hip and knee pain. Published in The Lancet, Swiss researchers from the University of Bern found that paracetamol did not meet 'minimal standards of clinical effectiveness' and was only 'slightly better' than a placebo in reducing pain and improving range of movement.

Consultant rheumatologist Cathy Speed reviewed an earlier study in the journal of Internal Medicine which compared different medical interventions in osteoarthritis and found that Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections into the joint had the best results in relieving joint pain.

Why does osteoarthritis cause pain?

Arthritis is a complex family of musculoskeletal disorders consisting of more than 100 different diseases or conditions that can affect people of all races, ages and genders. Each type of arthritis is different, and requires a different approach to treatment, so an accurate diagnosis is crucial for anyone who has arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and is the most common form of arthritis. According to Arthritis Research UK, 8.8 million people in the UK are affected by osteoarthritis and are suffering from pain and stiffness that is impacting on their ability to lead a normal life.

All joints are covered with a substance called cartilage that is firm but flexible and cushions the joints, reducing rubbing, friction and acting as a 'shock absorber'. Usually as a result of wear and tear, cartilage becomes rough and thin as it wears away and eventually the bones will just rub against each other with no barrier.

This can occur in any joint, but the most common problems occur in load-bearing joints, such as the back, knees, hips and fingers.

This is a progressive disease meaning that symptoms will typically start as very mild and become worse over time. Symptoms usually start as aching and soreness, but this can develop into chronic, long-term pain that can have a devastating impact on the sufferer's ability to perform even basic daily tasks.

Fortius Clinic offers a specialist Arthritis Clinic, led by Professor Cathy Speed, Consultant in Rheumatology and Sport & Exercise Medicine. The clinic offers a holistic approach to managing arthritis, whether there is one joint affected or many areas.

Assessment consultations in clinic are typically longer and diagnosis may involve investigations such as scans, blood tests, and mechanical evaluation. Options for treatments are thoroughly discussed and a personalised treatment package devised. Professor Speed coordinates other specialisms as required to suit the needs of the patient, and will continue to play a role in longer term assistance and monitoring, to ensure the best outcomes are achieved for each patient.

To find out more, get in touch with Fortius Clinic by calling 020 3195 2442 or alternatively email info@fortiusclinic.com.

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