Pain Management In Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative joint disease of the knee, is typically the result of wear and tear and progressive loss of joint cartilage. Knee osteoarthritis can be divided into two types, primary and secondary. It is most common in the elderly. The intensity of clinical symptoms can vary from person to person. However, they typically become more severe, more frequent, and more debilitating over time. The rate of progression also varies with each individual. People suffering from knee osteoarthritis complain of limited range of motion and pain when they move their knee or start walking. In advanced disease, they may complain of nocturnal or persistent knee pain and the functionality of the joint is severely impaired. Knee osteoarthritis treatment begins with non-surgical (conservative) treatment methods. Non-surgical treatment includes patient education, lifestyle modification, and the use of orthotic devices. It has been shown that untreated pain in the elderly can have a general impact on their quality of life and lead to depression, anxiety, social isolation, cognitive impairment, inactivity, and sleep disorders. The aim of our project is to provide training for patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis with chronic pain to be able to control their pain with self-management and to perform activities of daily living more easily. Appropriate knowledge and awareness can improve their quality of life. Performing safe and accurate pain management practices in the elderly can improve their performance, quality of life, increase their comfort and reduce their care costs. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of pain management education in individuals with knee osteoarthritis with chronic pain.