Living with severe osteoarthritis while awaiting hip and knee joint replacement surgery

Abstract

This study suggests that there is an absence of generic support, guidance and information relating to the management of symptoms of OA for individuals awaiting hip and knee replacement surgery. Patients awaiting hip and knee joint replacement surgery often have difficulty in managing their symptoms. Support in general appears to be dependent on the availability of resources in the primary care setting. Potential patients who are fortunate to know or meet someone who has undergone a similar procedure learn from the experience of exchanging information between themselves, along with coping strategies in the management of their symptoms.