NICE explains that a diagnosis of osteoarthritis can be made clinically without investigations if a person is 45 or more years old, has joint pain related to activity, and has either no morning joint-related stiffness or if they do have morning stiffness that this lasts no longer than 30 minutes.
NICE emphasises being aware of atypical features – history of trauma, prolonged morning joint-related stiffness, rapid worsening of symptoms, or a joint being hot and swollen, for example – that may indicate alternative or additional diagnoses, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
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Cite this: Dr Rob Hicks. Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of Osteoarthritis Guidelines - Medscape - Mar 23, 2021.
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