Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about osteoarthritis (OA):

1. Do I have OA or another form of arthritis?
   
   
2. What tests might I need to undergo, and what do they involve?
   
   
3. What do my test results show?
   
   
4. Will my joint pain spread to other joints?
   
   
5. What will alleviate my osteoarthritis pain?
   
   
6. What forms of exercise are safe for me?
   
   
7. Can glucosamine, chondroitin or other supplements help my osteoarthritis? Are there any supplements I should avoid?
   
   
8. Can heat therapy, hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, acupuncture or other such treatments help my pain?
   
   
9. Will physical therapy or occupational therapy prevent further deterioration?
   
   
10. Should I get assistive devices to help my mobility or adaptive equipment to help protect my joints during daily tasks?
    
    
11. Am I a candidate for surgery?
    
    
12. Is there anything I can do to prevent OA or slow its progression?
    
    
13. If I have OA, are my children more likely to get it?