Current issues in osteoarthritis treatment
10.5124/jkma.2024.67.10.616
- Author:
Junyong PARK
1
;
Sung Won LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Publication Type:Opinion
- From:Journal of the Korean Medical Association
2024;67(10):616-618
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent chronic joint disorder that leads to pain, disability, and functional impairment. The OA prevalence among those aged ≥65 years in Korea was 30.2% between 2017 and 2021. Owing to a rapidly aging population, OA is becoming a significant public health and socioeconomic concern.Current Concepts: The onset of OA is characterized by cartilage injury, which affects the surrounding tissues and progresses to joint destruction. The pathophysiology varies across joints; hand OA is associated with genetic factors, whereas knee and hip OA are associated with mechanical stress. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the primary treatment; however, considering their adverse effects and limited efficacy in halting disease progression, further research is warranted for more effective therapies. Natural medicines have been investigated; however, their clinical efficacy is inadequate.Discussion and Conclusion: Currently, no disease-modifying treatments are validated for OA. Animal models fail to reflect the slow progression and complexity of human OA; therefore, drug development remains challenging. In view of increasing healthcare costs and rapid population aging, further research and broader socioeconomic strategies are essential to manage the growing burden of OA.
