QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Prescribing opioid analgesia should not be the GP's first step. First-line pharmacological management of knee osteoarthritis should be a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Paracetamol or weak opioids should not be routinely offered (except for when they are used infrequently for short-term pain relief or all other treatments are ineffective or unsuitable). Strong opioids should not be offered.
10003863
c
Prescribe opioid analgesia
QuestionChoice
Acupuncture should not be recommended in patients with osteoarthritis. The GP's first steps should be to encourage exercise and weight loss.
10003865
e
Advise acupuncture
QuestionChoice
For all patients with osteoarthritis, therapeutic exercise should be recommended. It is important to advise patients that exercise may initially cause pain or discomfort, but there will be long-term benefits. For patients that are overweight or obese, weight loss should also be advised.
10003861
a
Encourage weight loss and exercise
QuestionChoice
Referral for knee replacement should only be considered if the joint symptoms are having a significant impact on quality of life and non-surgical management is either ineffective or unsuitable. It should not be the GP's first step.
10003862
b
Refer for knee replacement
QuestionChoice
Rest is not recommended for osteoarthritis. The GP's first steps should be to encourage exercise and weight loss.
10003864
d
Encourage rest
Concept
Chapter
2693
3766
Osteoarthritis
Topic
145
Orthopaedics
13319
A 74-year-old overweight male presents to the GP with chronic pain in his left knee. An x-ray is obtained and it shows signs of osteoarthritis.

Which of the following is the GP’s most likely first step in management?
a