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Osteoarthritis and falls — DGM MCQ

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ModerateFallsOsteoarthritis and fallsDGM

An 82-year-old woman has falls because knee pain limits her gait. She avoids exercise and has become deconditioned. Knee X-ray shows osteoarthritis without acute injury. Current medicines include paracetamol gel and amlodipine. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: C — Optimise pain control and refer for strength and balance rehabilitation

Painful osteoarthritis can drive falls through gait limitation and deconditioning, so analgesia optimisation and rehabilitation are appropriate. Bed rest and sedatives worsen falls risk, carotid Doppler is not indicated, and abruptly stopping walking aids is unsafe. Treating pain is often a falls-prevention intervention.

Reference: NICE NG249; NICE osteoarthritis guidance