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Osteoarthritis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareOsteoarthritisUSMLE Step 3

A 64-year-old woman has chronic knee pain worse with activity and better with rest. Radiographs show medial joint-space narrowing and osteophytes. She has chronic kidney disease stage 3 and controlled hypertension. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Recommend exercise therapy and topical NSAID

Exercise, weight management, and topical NSAIDs are appropriate initial therapy for knee osteoarthritis, especially when oral NSAID risk is higher.

Reference: American College of Rheumatology osteoarthritis guideline