What are the key lifestyle modifications I can suggest to patients with osteoarthritis to help manage their symptoms?

Key lifestyle modifications for patients with osteoarthritis to manage symptoms include:

• Therapeutic exercise: Encourage individualized exercise programs focusing on local muscle strengthening and general aerobic fitness. Explain that joint pain may initially increase but regular, consistent exercise reduces pain and improves function and quality of life. Consider supervised exercise sessions and combining exercise with education or behaviour change approaches.
• Weight management: Advise patients who are overweight or obese that weight loss improves quality of life, physical function, and reduces pain. Support setting achievable weight loss goals, noting that losing 10% of body weight is more beneficial than 5%. Weight management may also reduce the risk of OA in other joints.
• Footwear: Suggest wearing appropriate footwear to support joint function and reduce symptoms.
• Self-care and information: Provide tailored information and support resources such as Versus Arthritis and NHS leaflets to empower self-management and understanding of OA.
• Use of walking aids: Recommend walking aids if needed to improve mobility, balance, and reduce joint load.

These lifestyle modifications form the core non-pharmacological management of osteoarthritis and should be part of an individualized management plan based on symptom severity, joints affected, and comorbidities.