Chronic pain
Osteoarthritis-associated pain management in patients with comorbidities

Rick (51 years old)

Rick is a 51-year-old bar manager who is suffering from OA in the lower back area and in the right hip since several years. The pain, particularly in his hip, heavily hinders his work and gets worse towards the end of the day. Paracetamol (3 g/day) is insufficient for pain management, so Rick occasionally takes ibuprofen, which helps but causes heartburn.

In his medical record, the following is noted:

  • Injuries and traumas from rugby played in his youth
  • Hip X-ray: impingement of the superior-external coxo-femoral space
  • BMI: 30, waist circumference: 121 cm
  • Lifestyle: frequent alcohol consumption, non-smoker, limited physical activity

Which of the following option would you propose to this patient?