The article, co-authored by Richard Loeser, MD, director of the UNC Thurston Arthritis Research Center, provides a review of previous, current and evolving views regarding the disease, including treatments ranging from behavior modification, to advanced new therapies.
Long characterized as a wear-and-tear disorder, osteoarthritis (OA) is now understood to have a complex pathophysiology affecting multiple joints and joint structures. As described by the Osteoarthritis Research Society International definition: “The disease manifests first as a molecular derangement (abnormal joint tissue metabolism) followed by anatomic, and/or physiologic derangements (characterized by cartilage degradation, bone remodeling, osteophyte formation, joint inflammation and loss.”
The published paper also reviews the guidelines of various professional organizations regarding recommended/not-recommended treatment options for osteoarthritis of the hip and knee.
To access the abstract and article through the JAMA website, use this link.