Osteoarthritis is a common diagnosis in older people aged 65 years and
above, which causes significant pain leading to disability and decreased quality of life.
Nonpharmacological measures such as exercise and footwear are essential in the
management of osteoarthritis-related pain and disability in the older population if
medication adverse effects and polypharmacy are to be avoided. Pharmacological
approaches to pain management should complement nonpharmacological treatment.
Most drug therapies give mild-to-moderate pain relief but their long-term efficacy and
safety in older people remain undetermined. In older patients with severe osteoarthritis
of the hips or knees responding poorly to analgesics, total joint arthroplasty offers the
most effective intervention for those who are fit for surgery.
Keywords: Analgesia, Arthroplasty, Elderly, Exercise, Footwear, Knee, Hip,
Osteoarthritis, Pain management, Physical therapy, Surgery.
