J Korean Med Assoc.  2024 Oct;67(10):616-618. 10.5124/jkma.2024.67.10.616.

Current issues in osteoarthritis treatment

• Park J
• Lee SW

• KMID: 2560524
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2024.67.10.616

Abstract

Background
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.

Keyword

Aging; Joint diseases; Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents; Osteoarthritis; Socioeconomic factors; 노화; 관절질환; 비스테로이드성 함염증제; 골관 절염; 사회경제적 요인