Osteoarthritis
Articles tagged with Osteoarthritis
Pioneering study confirms the benefits of total hip arthroplasty
A pioneering study by the University of Eastern Finland confirms that total hip arthroplasty leads to better outcomes than conservative treatment for patients with moderate-to-severe hip osteoarthritis. The surgery significantly improved pain, functional capacity, and quality of life compared to conservative treatment alone.
Mapping the hidden triggers of jaw joint arthritis at the cellular level
A study mapped early molecular and cellular changes in the jaw joint that may trigger temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. The research found structural and molecular changes in joint tissues, including inflammation, fibrosis, and metabolic shifts. Single-cell sequencing revealed diverse cell populations interacting within the synov...
City St George’s partners with Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals to investigate mechanism of osteoarthritis pain drug candidate
City St George's, University of London, is partnering with Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals to test a potential treatment for osteoarthritis. The partnership aims to investigate the mechanism of action of pentosan polysulfate sodium (iPPS) on bone marrow lesions, which are linked to pain in osteoarthritis.
Doubt cast on effectiveness of widely used ‘KT-tape’ for joint/muscle pain + mobility
Research suggests that Kinesio taping (KT tape) may reduce pain intensity in the immediate and short term, but evidence for long-term benefits and its use in various musculoskeletal conditions is inconclusive. The majority of systematic reviews found inconsistent findings, and potential skin irritation remains a concern.
Effectiveness of exercise to ease osteoarthritis symptoms likely minimal and transient
A systematic review suggests that exercise has small, short-lived effects on knee osteoarthritis pain compared to placebo or no treatment. Moderate certainty evidence indicates negligible effects for hip and small effects for hand osteoarthritis. The findings question the universal promotion of exercise as a first-line treatment.
New molecular maps of bone could transform early osteoarthritis detection
Researchers used advanced imaging to uncover early molecular changes in bone associated with osteoarthritis. The study found that subchondral bone beneath damaged cartilage showed strong upregulation of specific collagen fragments, suggesting that disease-related bone changes begin earlier than previously recognized.
Physical therapy research highlights arthritis’ toll on the workforce — and the path forward
Research highlights arthritis' toll on the workforce, with nearly 10 million Americans aged 18-64 experiencing limitations. Overall health and socioeconomic factors are significant contributors to work-related challenges.
miR-101a: a new epigenetic regulator and therapeutic target for osteoarthritis
A new study identifies miR-101a as a critical suppressor of chondrocyte hypertrophy, reducing Cox-2 expression and attenuating structural damage in an OA mouse model. This highlights miR-101a's potential as a therapeutic candidate for osteoarthritis intervention.
Inhibiting a master regulator of aging regenerates joint cartilage in mice
A Stanford Medicine-led study discovers an oral treatment that regenerates joint cartilage in old mice, reversing naturally occurring cartilage loss and preventing arthritis. The treatment targets the cause of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease affecting millions worldwide.
cPLA2 inhibition with fexofenadine protects cartilage in degenerative joint disease
The study demonstrates that fexofenadine reduces cartilage degradation, inflammation, and senescence in mice models for OA and IVDD. Pharmacological inhibition of cPLA2 preserves cartilage structure and improves behavioral outcomes.
AI “digital twins” help patients make smarter decisions about knee surgery, study finds
A new study from researchers at Dell Medical School found that AI-powered tools can improve patient decision-making and outcomes for knee replacement surgery. Patients who used the digital twin tool reported higher decision quality, less regret, and better knee function compared to those who received educational materials alone.
Online unsupervised Tai Chi intervention for knee pain and function in people with knee osteoarthritis
A randomized clinical trial found that an unsupervised online Tai Chi intervention improved knee pain and function compared to the control group at 12 weeks. This free web-based intervention offers a safe, accessible, and scalable option for guideline-recommended osteoarthritis exercise.
Why do so many pro soccer players develop osteoarthritis?
Researchers found a significant link between foot/ankle injuries and osteoarthritis in retired pro soccer players. Players who received cortisosteroid injections for injuries were also more likely to develop osteoarthritis.
Walking, cycling and swimming likely best exercise for knee osteoarthritis
Regular aerobic exercise improves pain, function, gait performance, and quality of life for patients with knee osteoarthritis. Alternative forms of structured physical activity may still be beneficial when aerobic exercise is not possible.
AI predicts future X-rays to help osteoarthritis patients and their doctors see what’s coming
A new AI system can generate realistic future X-rays alongside risk scores for osteoarthritis progression, giving doctors and patients a clear visual forecast of how the condition may develop over time. The system outperforms comparable tools in predicting osteoarthritis progression with nine times faster speed and accuracy.
Low-dose radiation therapy offers substantial relief to people with painful knee osteoarthritis
A new clinical trial found that patients with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis reported significant reductions in pain and improved physical function after receiving low-dose radiation therapy. The study showed a 70% response rate in the high-dose group, compared to 42% in the placebo group.
New insights into osteoarthritis: identifying key genes and potential drugs
Researchers identified five hub genes with high diagnostic performance, showing significant sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing OA from control samples. They predicted targeted drugs with excellent binding interactions, potentially offering therapeutic benefits for OA patients.
Study isolates population aging as primary driver of musculoskeletal disorders
A new study reveals that population aging is the largest contributor to musculoskeletal disorders globally, accounting for approximately one third of countries and territories. The research highlights the need for targeted public health strategies and healthcare resource allocation to alleviate the burden of these disorders.
Tirzepatide more cost-effective than semaglutide in patients with knee osteoarthritis and obesity
A study found that tirzepatide is more cost-effective than semaglutide for treating knee osteoarthritis and obesity. Tirzepatide offered a more favorable return on investment, making it the better choice for patients.
‘Artificial cartilage’ could improve arthritis treatment
Researchers have developed an artificial cartilage material that responds to pH changes in the body, releasing anti-inflammatory drugs precisely where and when needed. This approach could improve arthritis treatment outcomes by continuously delivering pain-relieving medication.
Improving prediction of worsening knee osteoarthritis with an AI-assisted model
A new AI-assisted model combines MRI, biochemical, and clinical information to predict worsening knee osteoarthritis with high accuracy. The model showed improved accuracy in predicting worsening pain and joint space narrowing, suggesting its potential to enhance care.
The aging blueprint: Understanding the cellular mechanisms of skeletal aging
Aging cells disrupt bone renewal and repair processes, leading to weak bones and joint degeneration. Cellular senescence and inflammation are major drivers of skeletal decline, while senolytics and emerging therapies offer promising new paths for treatment.
Minimally invasive procedure relieves painful symptoms of knee osteoarthritis
A new minimally invasive procedure, genicular artery embolization, has been shown to relieve chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis in over 60% of patients. The procedure reduces inflammation and blood flow to joints, providing significant improvements in knee pain and stiffness.
Study reveals how small changes in walking technique may help treat knee osteoarthritis
A new study suggests that subtly adjusting the angle of the foot during walking can reduce knee pain caused by osteoarthritis and slow its progression. By tailoring each patient's foot angle to their unique walking pattern, experts believe an easy and fairly inexpensive way to address early-stage osteoarthritis may be found.
How to relieve arthritic knee pain without drugs or surgery
Researchers have developed a new approach to relieving arthritic knee pain through gait retraining, which involves adjusting the angle of a person's foot while walking. The study found that participants experienced pain relief equivalent to medication and showed less knee cartilage degradation over a year.
Study reveals spinning could reduce NHS waiting lists for physiotherapy treatments
A new study by Bournemouth University reveals that spinning can improve recovery outcomes and reduce clinical time needed for physiotherapy treatment compared to standard care. The cycling and education classes prove more cost-effective, contributing to reducing NHS waiting times for hip osteoarthritis patients.
Researchers identify new protein target to control chronic inflammation
Researchers have identified WSTF as a protein that could be targeted to block chronic inflammation, allowing the immune system to continue responding appropriately to short-term threats. The study's findings suggest new potential treatments targeting WSTF may combat chronic inflammatory diseases
Innovative nanocomposite hydrogel shows promise for cartilage regeneration in osteoarthritis treatment
A new nanocomposite hydrogel system has been developed to address the dual challenges of inflammation and cartilage damage in osteoarthritis. The hydrogel promotes cartilage repair through synergistic immune regulation and chondrocyte differentiation, offering a novel therapeutic strategy for OA.
The hidden drawbacks of HIV: treatment regimens may exacerbate risk of knee arthritis
Researchers investigated the link between HIV treatment regimens and osteoarthritis development, revealing that certain medications like lopinavir can exacerbate OA in the knee. The study's findings have important implications for people living with HIV, highlighting the need to carefully consider treatment options.
CASRx-mediated RNA editing: a promising therapeutic strategy for osteoarthritis
Researchers leveraged CRISPR/CasRx to silence Ctnnb1 and Smo, two genes involved in osteoarthritis development. Simultaneous knockdown of both genes effectively mitigated joint structure degeneration, highlighting the potential of RNA-based gene therapies for OA management.
R. Rex and Carrol Parris make $10 million gift to launch USC Longevity Research Accelerator at Keck School of Medicine
The USC Parris Longevity Accelerator aims to develop early interventions for age-related diseases, including osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease, through AI-driven diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutics. The initiative could lead to therapies that preserve mobility and restore strength in older adults.
Why are we prone to osteoarthritis?
Researchers found that OA cartilage lacks the normal bivalency of repressive and activating histone marks, leading to excessive activation of hypertrophic genes. This results in cartilage breakdown and degeneration. The study provides a potential therapeutic strategy to halt OA progression by targeting epigenetic enzyme KDM6B.
Obesity a leading cause of knee osteoarthritis
A recent study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage reveals that obesity is a leading cause of knee osteoarthritis. The research also found that certain lifestyle changes, such as following a Mediterranean diet and engaging in regular physical activity, can significantly reduce the risk of developing the condition.
Largest osteoarthritis genetic study uncovers pathways to new therapies and repurposed drugs
A global research initiative analyzing data from nearly 2 million people in diverse populations worldwide has uncovered multiple new genes associated with osteoarthritis. The study also identified key genetic pathways and 69 genes whose protein products are targeted by approved drugs, paving the way for repurposed treatments.
Metformin for knee osteoarthritis in patients with overweight or obesity
A randomized clinical trial suggests that metformin can be an effective treatment for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis in people with overweight or obesity. The study's results support the use of metformin for this condition, but further confirmation is needed in larger clinical trials.
Repurposed diabetes drug can reduce pain for those with knee arthritis and overweight or obesity: study
A study published in JAMA found that metformin reduced knee arthritis pain over six months in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis and overweight or obesity. The treatment was shown to have a moderate effect on pain reduction, with the metformin group reporting a 31.3 point decrease compared to the placebo group.
Which patient characteristics might contribute to poor recovery after hip replacement surgery?
New research suggests that patients' muscle quality before hip replacement surgery may predict their risk of poor recovery. Patients with poor muscle quality were more likely to perform poorly on movement tasks after surgery, compared to those with good muscle quality.
Drugs targeting ‘zombie cells’ show promise for treating chronic back pain
Researchers at McGill University have identified a potential new treatment for chronic low back pain by targeting 'zombie cells' in the spine. Two drugs, o-Vanillin and RG-7112, were found to clear zombie cells, reduce pain and inflammation, and slow or reverse damage to spinal discs after eight weeks of treatment.
Largest ever genome-wide association study uncovers new drug targets and potential therapies for osteoarthritis
A recent study has made a breakthrough in understanding the genetic underpinnings of osteoarthritis by identifying 962 genetic markers associated with the condition. The researchers found 513 new genetic markers that were not previously reported, providing potential new drug targets and opportunities for repurposing existing medications.
ESCEO-IOF Young Investigator Awards presented at WCO-IOF-ESCEO 2025 in Rome
Twelve young researchers from around the world receive ESCEO-IOF Young Investigator Awards for their groundbreaking studies on osteoporosis. The prestigious awards were presented during the World Congress on Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis & Musculoskeletal Diseases (WCO-IOF-ESCEO 2025) in Rome, Italy.
ESCEO-IOF Pierre Meunier Young Scientist Award presented to Dr. Elizabeth M. Curtis
Dr. Elizabeth M. Curtis has been awarded the ESCEO-IOF Pierre Meunier Young Scientist Award for her groundbreaking research on musculoskeletal health and bone disease. Her work focuses on the epidemiology of bone, muscle health, and joint health across the lifespan.
Dr Ambrish Mithal awarded prestigious IOF CSA Medal of Achievement
Dr Ambrish Mithal, an Indian endocrinologist, has been awarded the prestigious IOF CSA Medal of Achievement for his groundbreaking work in advancing the field of osteoporosis. His pioneering efforts have significantly increased understanding and awareness of osteoporosis globally.
Professor Atsushi Suzuki of Japan honored with prestigious IOF President’s Award
Professor Atsushi Suzuki, Chair of Endocrinology at Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Japan, received the IOF President's Award for his exceptional contributions to IOF. He has shared his expertise as a mentor and engaged member of the Capture the Fracture Governance.
Alternative to hip replacement keeps aging athletes in the game
A surgical procedure called Birmingham hip resurfacing enables aging athletes to remain highly active, even many years after the procedure. Studies have shown that patients who underwent this procedure were able to return to high-impact sports and maintain their activity levels for an average of 14 years after surgery.
Osteoarthritis: largest genome-wide association study uncovers drug targets and therapy opportunities
The largest genome-wide association study on osteoarthritis identifies over 900 genetic associations, including 700 genes involved in the disease. These findings offer new insights into the genetic landscape of osteoarthritis and potential drug repurposing opportunities.
New flexible hydrogel could improve drug delivery for post-traumatic osteoarthritis treatment
Researchers at Mass General Brigham have developed a new hydrogel that continuously releases medication without breaking down under mechanical stress. The hydrogel showed promising results in preclinical studies, significantly reducing cartilage damage and improving joint lubrication.
PolyU two products connecting healthcare and technology win iF Design Awards 2025
PolyU's EmoFriends interactive toy and Transparent Knee Guard wearable device have won the prestigious iF Design Awards 2025 for their cutting-edge sensing technology and emotional support capabilities. The devices demonstrate innovative design solutions for healthcare and technology, showcasing PolyU's commitment to research excellence.
Queen Mary launches new regenerative medicine spinout to repair joint damage and prevent arthritis
Queen Mary University of London has launched a new regenerative medicine spinout, ReFleks, which aims to repair osteochondral defects and prevent osteoarthritis. The innovative treatment uses Agrin to block cartilage degradation and form new cartilage faster, providing a cheaper and easier alternative to existing approaches.
How might ACL surgery increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis?
A new study suggests that ACLR patients have a higher riding patella, shifting load-bearing areas and potentially contributing to osteoarthritis. This finding is observed in both the injured knee and the uninjured contralateral knee.
Engineered cartilage from nasal septum cells helps treat complex knee injuries
Researchers have developed a method to repair complex knee injuries using cartilage implants made from nasal septum cells. The study shows that longer maturation periods of the implant lead to better clinical efficacy and tissue composition.
Global 130%+ rise in postmenopausal osteoarthritis and associated disability over past 3 decades
The global number of postmenopausal osteoarthritis cases has risen by 130% over the past three decades, primarily due to excess weight accounting for 20% of total years lived with resulting disability globally. East Asia and high-income Asia Pacific countries experienced the fastest growth in the condition.
Innate immune training aggravates inflammatory bone loss
Researchers found that training the innate immune system can exacerbate inflammatory bone loss in models of chronic diseases like periodontitis and arthritis. The study suggests that a previously thought beneficial effect of trained immunity may actually contribute to harm in certain contexts.
Viking skulls reveal severe morbidity
A study of Viking skulls using CT scans reveals a range of diseases including sinus and ear infections, osteoarthritis, and dental diseases. The results provide greater understanding of the health and wellbeing of the Viking population.
Depression linked with higher risk of long-term physical health conditions
Research published in PLOS Medicine found that adults with depression accrue physical illnesses around 30% faster than those without. The study suggests integrated approaches to manage mental and physical health are needed to improve care and outcomes for individuals with both conditions.
Study identifies mechanism underlying increased osteoarthritis risk in postmenopausal females
A new study identifies the molecular mechanisms underlying increased osteoarthritis risk in postmenopausal females, revealing that menopause-induced changes in sex hormone levels contribute to joint degeneration. Restoring these hormones may protect against cartilage degeneration, paving the way for novel treatments.
Researchers develop new test for early osteoarthritis diagnosis
Researchers have developed a new diagnostic test that uses two markers found in the synovial fluid of patients' joints to differentiate osteoarthritis from inflammatory arthritis. The algorithm, based on the ratio of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein and interleukin-8, has been validated with high accuracy.
Mesenchymal cell vesicles target chondrocyte aging in osteoarthritis
The study, published in Aging, introduces a new therapy for osteoarthritis that uses extracellular vesicles derived from fat tissue to repair damage caused by aging cells. The treatment showed strong therapeutic effects in both cellular and mouse preclinical studies, reducing inflammation and DNA damage markers in human joint cells.
Paracetamol may not be as safe as perceived in older people, according to a new study
A new study by the University of Nottingham found repeated paracetamol doses in older adults (65+) can lead to increased risks of peptic ulcers, heart failure, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. The study suggests paracetamol use should be carefully reconsidered for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Does altered gait following ACL surgery contribute to additional knee problems?
Research published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research reveals that individuals with ACL reconstruction exhibit persistent aberrant gait biomechanics, which can lead to joint loads contributing to long-term knee problems. Early rehabilitative measures may help maintain long-term knee joint health.