Toughing it out: Survey reveals Canadians with osteoarthritis pain 'kneed to move'
But medication concerns, lifestyle and other challenges keeps them sidelined
TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - Canadians with osteoarthritis (OA) "kneed to move," but too often related knee pain holds them back. A new survey reveals that even though this pain impacts quality of life - both physically and emotionally - too few are taking steps to address it.
The nation-wide survey of Canadians over age 50 with OAi revealed that OA knee pain has a significant effect on the quality of life of 71 per cent of respondents.i In fact, four out of five report that their pain can restrict them from everyday activities - such as working, sleep and household chores.i
And while fall is a beautiful season to enjoy the outdoors, 72 per cent identify exercise, sports and recreational activities as the top activities their pain keeps them from enjoying.i And sixty-three per cent report frustration with the limitations imposed on their lives.i
"Chronic pain can be isolating," says Lynn Cooper, president, Canadian Pain Coalition. "While many want to be outside, participating in both every day and autumn activities, such as visiting a fall fair or going apple picking with family and friends, they instead find themselves inside and alone, which can cause a downward emotional spiral and general physical deconditioning if left unmanaged."
Osteoarthritis and a "kneed to move"
Affecting more than three million Canadians,ii OA is a progressive joint disease that occurs when damaged joint tissues are unable to normally repair themselves resulting in a breakdown of cartilage and bone.iii The most commonly affected joints are the hands and weight-bearing joints, including the knees, hips, feet and spine.iv
Almost half of respondents (48 per cent) report daily knee pain, with three out of four respondents experiencing pain at least weekly.i And among those who experience daily OA knee pain, nearly half classify their pain as the "worst pain imaginable".i
Pain "kneeds" unaddressed by sufferers
However, many sufferers are still not communicating with their doctors about their pain until it is almost unbearable. Specifically, respondents who spoke with a doctor about their pain were most likely to say it was because the pain became more bothersome (57 per cent) and/or because their condition worsened (41 per cent).i
Patients "kneed" to follow medical advice
Despite the impact of OA knee pain, many are not taking their pain medications as prescribed. More than half of respondents (54 per cent) report not taking their medication exactly as directed;i and among them 30 per cent report taking their pain medication only when their pain becomes too much to handle.i
Many OA knee pain sufferers are worried about medication safety and addiction. In fact, 73 per cent of survey respondents reported they are concerned about possible side effects of prescription pain medications, and 54 per cent are concerned about the risk of addiction.i
"It is extremely important for patients to follow their management plan but also share any concerns around pain medications with their doctor," says Dr. Philip Baer, rheumatologist.
"We can explain OA, treatment risk and benefits, recommend lifestyle changes, and share information about new, safe and effective pain medications - so they can reconnect with their lives and the activities they enjoy."
"Kneed" to learn more?
Sufferers are making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and modifying diet, to help reduce stress on their knees, but there is room for improvement. Only 26 per cent of respondents are currently making such adjustments to address their condition following a doctor's recommendation.i
"Too many Canadians are living with OA knee pain daily but they are not alone. There are many opportunities for those with OA to learn more and do more. The Arthritis Society and the Canadian Pain Coalition offer education and information; and some pharmaceutical companies offer ongoing support programs to help those in pain manage their treatments and re-engage with their lives," says Joanne Simons, chief mission officer, The Arthritis Society.
About the 'Kneed to Move' survey
The objective of the "Kneed to Move" study was to better understand the impact and management of pain due to OA of the knee. Specifically, it looks at how Canadians are currently treating it, as well as how it affects their quality of life.
Interviews were conducted online, in both French and English, among 251 Canadians aged 50 and over with OA of the knee, a representative sample of those currently with the condition.
About Lilly
Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Lilly provides answers - through medicines and information - for some of the world's most urgent medical needs. Eli Lilly Canada, headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, employs close to 500 people across the country. Additional information about Eli Lilly Canada can be found at www.lilly.ca.
References
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i About the poll: The poll, commissioned by Eli Lilly Canada Inc., was conducted online by Harris/Decima between April 25 and May 1, 2013. Results are based on a sample of 251 Canadian adults who are age 50 or older who have been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.
ii Osteoarthritis. The Arthritis Society. Retrieved from: http://www.arthritis.ca/page.aspx?pid=941 Accessed June 4, 2013.
iii Arthritis Alliance of Canada. The Impact of Arthritis in Canada: Today and Over the Next 30 Years. Fall 2011. Retrieved from: http://www.arthritisalliance.ca/docs/20111022_2200_executive_summary.pdf Accessed May 16, 2013.
iv Living Well with Osteoarthritis, Knowing your Treatment Options. Retrieved from: http://www.parl.ns.ca/rooms/healthroom/pdf/osteoarthritis.pdf. Accessed on June 6, 2013.
SOURCE Eli Lilly Canada Inc.
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