Treatment recommendations for chronic knee osteoarthritis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rheumatology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Primary osteoarthritis (OA) significantly impacts the aging global population, causing substantial years-lost-to-disability (YLD).
• OA is frequently viewed as an overuse injury leading to joint inflammation and bone spur formation.
• Chronic pain associated with OA necessitates a spectrum of management strategies, from conservative to surgical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review risk factors and early management of knee osteoarthritis (OA).
• To provide an in-depth exploration of invasive interventions for symptomatic relief and functional restoration in knee OA.
• To highlight the progression of OA treatment from conservative measures to surgical options.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on knee osteoarthritis.
• Analysis of current treatment standards for OA.
• Exploration of risk factors, early management, and invasive interventions.

Main Results:

• Conservative management, including lifestyle changes and anti-inflammatory drugs, is the initial standard of care.
• Injections serve as an escalated care option.
• A significant number of patients eventually require total knee arthroplasty.

Conclusions:

• Knee OA management involves a stepwise approach, starting conservatively and escalating as needed.
• Invasive interventions are crucial for patients who do not respond to conservative treatments.
• Total knee arthroplasty remains a common outcome for advanced knee OA.