After reading NSAIDS Linked to Higher Cardiovascular Risks in Patients With Osteoarthritis, it reinforces the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to chronic pain management.

Our results indicate that osteoarthritis is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and suggest a substantial proportion of the increased risk is due to the use of NSAIDs. This is highly relevant because NSAIDs are some of the most commonly used drugs to manage pain in patients with osteoarthritis,” Dr. Anis said.

DG News, NSAIDS Linked to Higher Cardiovascular Risks in Patients With Osteoarthritis

As physicians, we need to look at our patients more closely and identify risk factors. Medications are often the forefront in treatment for osteoarthritis, however, we need to continue to explore alternative or non-medication means of relief for our patients.

According to The Arthritis Foundation, great alternative methods of relief for OA are physical activity, weight management, stretching, Hyaluronic acid injections, diet and nutrition, and joint surgery. To learn more about alternative treatment for OA, read here.