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Use of complementary medicines for osteoarthritis--a prospective study
J Zochling1, L March, H Lapsley
1Institute of Bone and Joint Research, University of Sydney, Australia. jzochlin@med.usyd.edu.au
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|April 15, 2004
Summary
Forty percent of osteoarthritis patients use complementary and alternative medicines (CAM), often instead of conventional painkillers. This study investigated CAM prevalence and costs in osteoarthritis management.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Integrative Medicine
- Health Economics
Background:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) patients frequently use complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) alongside or instead of conventional pain relief.
- Understanding CAM prevalence and associated costs is crucial for comprehensive OA patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively determine the prevalence of CAM use in patients with knee or hip osteoarthritis.
- To assess the direct financial costs incurred by patients utilizing CAM for OA management.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 341 OA patients (community-based and awaiting joint replacement) in Sydney, Australia.
- CAM usage tracked via three-monthly diaries over a 12-month follow-up period.
- Data collected on health-related quality of life and out-of-pocket expenses.
Main Results:
- 40% of OA patients reported using CAM, consistent with prior research.
- Average annual CAM expenditure was AUD 32.25 (range: $0–$603.30).
- CAM users were more likely to be female, report higher pain levels, and less likely to use conventional analgesics.
Conclusions:
- Limited high-quality clinical evidence supports the efficacy of most CAM preparations used by OA patients.
- There is a clear need for patient education regarding the risks and benefits of CAM in osteoarthritis management.