The guidelines formulated by the New York State Workers Compensation Board are aimed at providing direction for the treatment of Aggravated Osteoarthritis. Their purpose is to aid physicians, and healthcare professionals in determining the most suitable treatment for this condition.
Healthcare professionals dealing with aggravated osteoarthritis can rely on the Workers Compensation Board’s guidelines to make well-informed decisions regarding the optimal level of care for their patients.
It is essential to underscore that these guidelines are not intended to replace clinical judgment or professional expertise. The final decision regarding care should be a collaborative process involving the patient and their healthcare provider.
Description/Definition
Osteoarthritis: Swelling and/or pain in a joint due to an aggravation by an injury, or in the context of an aggravating activity in a patient with pre-existing degenerative change in a joint.
Mechanism of Injury
May be caused by local trauma such as a blow, repetitive activity, or from postural imbalance resulting from a constant malposition.
Specific Physical Findings
Increased pain and swelling in a join
Testing Procedures
Radiographs
Recommended – as clinically indicated
Non-Operative Treatment
Recommended – in select patients as clinically indicated.
Rest/restricted activity, off-loading with crutches or cane, ice, elevation, bracing, active and/or passive therapy, NSAIDs, APAP therapeutic injections, which may at a late date include hyaluronate therapy.
Surgical Indications / Operative Treatment
Recommended – in select patients.
Indications: Symptoms with functional limitations not responsive to conservative therapy. Debridement with or without removal of loose bodies.
Not Recommended – Arthroscopic joint lavage.
Note: For symptoms not responsive to conservative measures, treatment may involve knee arthroplasty.
Post-Operative Therapy
Recommended – as clinically indicated.
Rest/restricted activity, off-loading with crutches or cane, ice, elevation, bracing, active and/or passive therapy, NSAIDs, APAP therapeutic injections, which may at a late date include hyaluronate therapy.
