Osteoarthritis of the Hip and Knee: Causes, Consequences and Control: Osteoarthritis and its pathology and management

This work examines the disabling health condition known as osteoarthritis in the context of the hip and knee joint. Three different approaches are used to gather in depth information on the overall problem, the role of cognitions in mediating the consequences of the condition, and possible risk factors for the condition. A model of why this condition occurs is presented as well as guidelines for conservative treatment and for improving outcomes for the patient. As a whole, the author stresses that mechanisms other than age and trauma are potentially related to the development and progression of this condition. The translation of this information into practice has the potential to impact morbidity and prevalence of this condition. Moreover, given the enormity of this rapidly increasing health problem all over the world, and that there is no cure for this condition, this information is likely to be highly relevant to aging adults, dieticians, medical and allied health practitioners, policy makers, psychologists, and researchers in the field of gerontology, orthopedics, psychology, and rheumatology.