| Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease is a wear | | | | functional independence. Let us take a look at some |
| and tear disease of the joints typically seen in the | | | | of the treatments that currently exist for |
| older adult (usually over 60 years of age). Cartilage | | | | osteoarthritis.Many doctors recommend |
| within the joints breaks down causing pain as the | | | | acetaminophen (Tylenol) as the initial analgesic (pain |
| bones rub against each other. Osteoarthritis is | | | | medication) of choice for the treatment of |
| commonly found in the knees, hips, hands, spine, and | | | | osteoarthritis. Acetaminophen has very few side |
| feet.Obesity is a risk factor for developing | | | | effects. When using acetaminophen as a pain reliever, |
| osteoarthritis in the knees and hips. These weight | | | | remember to follow the directions correctly. |
| bearing joints carry much of the weight causing | | | | Acetaminophen is commonly overused by patients. |
| increased wear and tear. Weight loss can significantly | | | | You are recommended to not exceed 4,000 mg of |
| reduce the chance of developing osteoarthritis and | | | | acetaminophen in a twenty-four hour period. |
| can alleviate pain in people who currently have | | | | Acetaminophen is metabolized or processed by the |
| osteoarthritis.Currently osteoarthritis treatment is | | | | liver. Excess acetaminophen can cause damage to |
| limited because no medications are capable of | | | | the liver. Acetaminophen is also found in other pain |
| preventing or retarding the disease process. | | | | medications such as Darvocet, Percocet, and Tylenol |
| Osteoarthritis treatment involves focusing on pain | | | | Cold. In fact, acetaminophen is found in quite a few |
| relief, the maintenance of quality of life, and | | | | prescription pain medications. |