Keywords

complementary and alternative medicine, osteoarthritis

 

Authors

  1. Fouladbakhsh, Judith PhD, APRN-BC, AHN-BC, CHTP

Abstract

Overview: Conventional medical treatment of osteoarthritis often successfully relieves pain but can also produce adverse gastrointestinal and cardiovascular effects, especially with long-term use. Hence, many patients use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to prevent, control, and manage the pain of osteoarthritis. The author reviews the evidence on the efficacy and safety of several CAM therapies often used for osteoarthritis management, including mind-body therapies, supplements, and body-based treatments.