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Radiocast: Comparing Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Treatments
Debra: This is Healthcare 411: Information for better health.
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common condition. When the rubbery tissue at the
end of your bones called cartilage wears down, your knee can become painful,
stiff and swollen. The key is finding the treatment - or combination of
treatments - that works for you. A new guide from AHRQ can help. Clinical nurse
Tina Murray explains:
Ms. Murray: AHRQ’s guide compares the effectiveness of various treatment
options for osteoarthritis of the knee. Good evidence shows many prescriptions
and over-the-counter medications reduce pain. Weight loss and exercise can also
help. Research shows treatments such as glucosamine and chondroitin supplements,
joint lubrication shots, or getting arthroscopic surgery don’t provide the same
level of benefit.
Debra: For a copy of the guide, visit
effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov. Healthcare 411 is produced by AHRQ, the Agency
for Healthcare Research and Quality, part of the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services. I’m Debra James for Healthcare 411.
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