TSRI scientists find key proteins control risk of osteoarthritis during aging
Researchers found FOXO proteins maintain healthy cartilage and prevent joint degeneration. Targeting FoxO could develop new therapies to treat osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Articles tagged with Osteoarthritis
The impact of lower total knee replacement rates in black Americans
Black Americans experience lower total knee replacement rates, resulting in significant losses in quality-adjusted life years. Compared to white counterparts, they gain fewer QALYs due to underuse of this highly efficacious procedure.
Hip steroid injections associated with bone changes
A new study presented at the Radiological Society of North America meeting found that hip steroid injections are associated with a higher incidence of bone death and collapse compared to control groups. The research showed that 22-24% of patients who received hip injections developed osteonecrosis, while 15-17% experienced bone collapse.
Researchers uncover link between immune function and osteoarthritic pain and progression
Monocytes play a pivotal role in osteoarthritis pain and progression. A study found that activated monocytes increase inflammation and body mass index, leading to worsened knee osteoarthritis. Researchers aim to explore the impact of exercise on older adults with OA.
Radiographs of Dolly's skeleton show no signs of abnormal osteoarthritis
A team of researchers has found that Dolly's skeleton shows no signs of abnormal osteoarthritis, contrary to initial concerns. The study also revealed that the skeletons of other clones and naturally conceived sheep have similar radiographic OA patterns.
Retired professional footballers at higher risk of knee osteoarthritis
A large study reveals retired professional footballers are two to three times more likely to suffer from knee pain and osteoarthritis than the general population. The research found that repetitive microtrauma from playing football is a major cause of increased risk, particularly in younger age groups.
Acupuncture could ease women's vulvar pain
Researchers aim to discover whether acupuncture can treat vulvodynia, a women's chronic pain condition affecting up to 14 million Americans. Acupuncture has shown promise in reducing pain in various studies.
Cartilage degeneration algorithm predicts progression of osteoarthritis
Researchers developed a novel cartilage degeneration algorithm to predict the progression of osteoarthritis. The algorithm shows great potential in patient-specific progression prediction, and may facilitate clinical decision-making in treatment.
Arthritis on the rise
A recent Harvard University study reveals that knee osteoarthritis has dramatically increased in prevalence over the past 70 years, affecting an estimated one-third of Americans over 60. The research challenges the long-held assumption that osteoarthritis is simply a wear-and-tear disease related to aging and obesity.
Prevalence of knee osteoarthritis
Researchers found knee OA in 16% of postindustrial individuals 50+, but only 6% and 8% in early industrial and prehistoric samples. The findings suggest an approximate doubling of knee OA prevalence since the mid-20th century.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2017
Self-efficacy boosts physical activity in osteoarthritis patients
Researchers found that self-efficacy positively affects physical activity in osteoarthritis patients, even controlling for pain and mood. Boosting confidence can increase daily steps and moderate-intensity activity.
Decreasing height, increasing arthritis risk evolutionarily advantageous for humans
A single genetic change linked to reduced human height is also associated with an increased risk of osteoarthritis. The variant has been positively selected in many human populations, suggesting it may have provided a survival advantage in colder climates.
Spouses' daily responses to partners' pain linked with later functioning
A new study found that spouses' empathic responses to their partners' pain improve the partner's physical functioning over time. Patients with spouses who provided emotional support and attention showed better balance, gait speed, and ability to rise from a chair compared to those with less responsive spouses.
Recreational running benefits hip and knee joint health
A systematic review of 25 studies found that recreational running is not associated with osteoarthritis, but competitive running increases the risk. Recreational runners are less likely to develop knee and hip osteoarthritis compared to sedentary individuals.
SourceJOSPT, Inc. d/b/a Movement Science Media·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy·DateJun 2, 2017
Fiber-rich diet linked to lowered risk of painful knee osteoarthritis
Two large US studies found a significant association between high fiber intake and reduced risk of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. High cereal fiber intake was also linked to lower worsening knee pain.
Chondroitin sulfate as good as widely used anti-inflammatory for knee osteoarthritis
Researchers find pharmaceutical-grade chondroitin sulfate comparable to celecoxib in reducing pain and improving joint function; long-term treatment recommended for older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Effective and safe alternatives are needed due to risks associated with NSAIDs and paracetamol.
Opioid use before knee replacement surgery results in worse pain outcomes for patients
A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that preoperative opioid use is associated with less pain reduction after total knee replacement surgery. Patients who used opioids before their procedure experienced about 9 percent less pain relief at six months following surgery compared to those who did not.
Improved care of osteoarthritis may help improve older patients' mobility
A large study found that hip and knee osteoarthritis is the primary cause of difficulty walking in older adults. The condition increases with more affected joints, posing a significant barrier to physical activity and independence.
Cross-species links identified for osteoarthritis
A new study from the University of Liverpool has identified common 'cell messages' that can help diagnose osteoarthritis in both humans and rats. The research also found that these messages are strongly associated with diseased cartilage, suggesting a potential breakthrough in early diagnosis and personalized treatment for OA.
Findings do not support steroid injections for knee osteoarthritis
A study published in JAMA found that steroid injections did not improve symptoms or reduce cartilage damage in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. The treatment resulted in significant cartilage volume loss, but no significant difference in knee pain compared to a placebo injection.
Osteoarthritis could be prevented with good diet and exercise
Researchers at the University of Surrey found that metabolic changes caused by poor diets and sedentary lifestyles can trigger genetic reprogramming in cells, leading to inflammation and cartilage damage. By controlling metabolic changes through healthy eating and exercise, it may be possible to slow or even prevent osteoarthritis.
Rodents with trouble walking reveal potential treatment approach for most common joint disease
A new study published in Nature Communications suggests that maintaining high levels of adenosine in rats with damaged ACLs prevents osteoarthritis. Adenosine replacement therapy could potentially delay the onset of osteoarthritis and joint replacements.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 11, 2017
Hand osteoarthritis is a common condition
A new study estimates that nearly half of the population will develop hand osteoarthritis, affecting hand strength and function. Individuals with obesity are at a significantly increased risk, highlighting the need for public health and clinical interventions to address this common condition.
Noisy knees may be an early sign of knee osteoarthritis
A new study links knee osteoarthritis to noisy knees in high-risk individuals. Approximately 75% of those who developed OA within a year had x-ray signs but no frequent pain.
Clearing out old cells could extend joint health, stop osteoarthritis
Researchers report that selectively removing old or 'senescent' cells from joints could prevent and even reverse the progression of osteoarthritis. The treatment promotes an environment for new cartilage to grow and repair joints, reducing pain and degradation in joint health.
Knee surgery may have minimal quality of life effects in those with less severe symptoms
A recent study published in The BMJ found that knee replacement surgery for patients with osteoarthritis has limited effects on quality of life and is economically unattractive. However, restricting the procedure to patients with more severe symptoms may improve effectiveness and make it more economically viable
Knee replacement surgery may have minimal effect on quality of life & unattractive
A study led by Mount Sinai researchers found that knee replacement surgery provides only small improvements in quality of life, especially in patients with less severe physical function. The procedure's economic attractiveness increases when offered to those with more severe symptoms.
Age not a factor in success of shoulder replacement surgery
A recent Henry Ford Health study suggests that age is not a factor in the success of shoulder replacement surgery. The research analyzed data from patients under 65 and those older than 75 with osteoarthritis, finding that both groups experienced significant improvement in shoulder function after surgery.
Compared to home-based program, in-patient rehab following knee replacement does not improve mobility
A study published in JAMA found that in-patient rehabilitation following knee replacement surgery did not improve mobility at 26 weeks post-surgery. Patients who received a monitored home-based program showed similar results as those who underwent inpatient rehab.
Nearly all shoulder replacement patients under age 55 return to sports
A new study found that nearly all recreational athletes under 55 who underwent total shoulder replacement surgery returned to at least one sport within seven months, with high satisfaction rates and high use of their shoulders.
One-third of costs prior to knee replacement for non-recommended therapies
A study of 86,000 patients found that almost one-third of costs prior to total knee replacement went towards non-recommended therapies. The top three most costly treatments were hyaluronic acid injections, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy, accounting for 52.6% of expenses.
Improvements in ACL surgery may help prevent knee osteoarthritis
A new review suggests that improved ACL reconstruction techniques can restore normal knee motion and slow degenerative changes associated with osteoarthritis. The placement of a graft on the femur is crucial for preventing cartilage thinning, a key factor in maintaining joint health and function.
Poor thigh muscle strength may increase women's risk of knee osteoarthritis
A new study found that poor thigh muscle strength increases the risk of knee osteoarthritis in women, but not men. The sex-specific relationship between muscle strength and BMI suggests distinct treatment approaches may be needed for women.
ACP and AAFP release new hypertension recommendations
The American College of Physicians (ACP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) have released a new guideline for treating hypertension in adults 60 years old and older. The guidelines recommend a less aggressive treatment target for otherwise healthy adults, with a focus on achieving a systolic blood pressure of less tha...
First study to show chair yoga as effective alternative treatment for osteoarthritis
A new study found that chair yoga significantly reduced pain and improved functional ability in older adults with osteoarthritis. The 8-week program also showed long-term benefits, with reductions in pain interference lasting three months after completion.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 11, 2017
The weather's not to blame for your aches and pains
Research reveals weather plays no part in the symptoms associated with back pain and osteoarthritis, contrary to long-held beliefs. Higher temperatures slightly increase lower back pain risk but not clinically important.
Keck School of Medicine of USC receives $2.5 Million for translational osteoarthritis research
The Keck School of Medicine of USC has received a $2.5 million grant to develop an off-the-shelf stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis. The therapy aims to reduce the need for joint replacement surgery, mitigating the burden on patients and physicians.
Most people with knee OA meet physical function level to walk recommended 6,000 steps a day
New research from the American College of Rheumatology finds that most people with knee osteoarthritis (OA) meet the minimum physical function level necessary to walk at least 6,000 steps a day. This suggests that many individuals with OA can adopt physically active lifestyles and achieve significant health benefits.
Blood test for early osteoarthritis diagnosis unveiled
Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a blood test to detect early-stage osteoarthritis (OA) and distinguish it from other self-resolving inflammatory joint diseases. The test identifies biomarkers in plasma proteins damaged by oxidation, nitration, and glycation, enabling early detection and treatment.
Patients report symptom improvement following prolotherapy for knee osteoarthritis
A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found prolotherapy to be effective in reducing pain and improving knee function among individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Most participants reported a substantial decrease in pain after receiving hypertonic dextrose injections around the affected joint.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateOct 24, 2016
Study results may help patients after ACL surgery
A new study investigated ACL injury's effect on osteoarthritis development. The study found that the knee adduction moment significantly influences joint contact forces after surgery.
High cholesterol triggers mitochondrial oxidative stress leading to osteoarthritis
Research suggests that high cholesterol levels trigger mitochondrial oxidative stress on cartilage cells, causing them to die and ultimately leading to the development of osteoarthritis. Mitochondria targeting antioxidants have shown promise as a viable treatment strategy.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 14, 2016
Chondroitin + glucosamine sulfate may provide no benefits for patients with knee osteoarthritis
A multicenter randomized study of 164 patients with knee osteoarthritis found no significant reduction in pain and function impairment from chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine sulfate therapy. The results suggest that additional research is needed to determine the efficacy of this combination for treating knee osteoarthritis.
Nottingham Dollies prove cloned sheep can live long and healthy lives
Four cloned sheep, the 'Dollies', have reached their 9th birthdays in good health, defying initial concerns about premature ageing. Long-term assessments show no detrimental effects of somatic-cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) on these animals.
Knee pain sufferers can kick ugly shoes to the curb
A randomized controlled trial found that changes in pain and physical function did not differ between patients wearing unloading shoes or conventional walking shoes. The study suggests that choosing one type of shoe over the other may not significantly impact symptoms for knee osteoarthritis sufferers.
Computational modeling can predict onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis in overweight people
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland has developed a computational model that can predict the onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis in overweight people. The model analyzes the degradation of the collagen fibril network in articular cartilage and simulates the effect of various loadings on cartilage cells.
Docs legally allowed to inquire about guns, disclose info to third parties when necessary
Physicians can ask patients about firearms, counsel them on gun safety, and disclose information to third parties as needed. Current federal and state statutes do not prohibit discussing firearms with patients, but many physicians lack training and knowledge to provide effective counseling.
Risk of second major osteoporotic fracture is greatest immediately after first fracture
A new study found that the risk of a second major osteoporotic fracture increases by 4% for each year of age and is 41% higher in women than men. The risk of subsequent fractures decreases over time, but remains elevated throughout follow-up.
IOF Committee of National Societies Medal awarded to Dr. Elias Hanna Saba
Dr. Elias Hanna Saba, Chief Executive Director of the Palestinian Osteoporosis Prevention Society, was awarded the International Osteoporosis Foundation's Committee of National Societies Medal for his over 26 years of experience in bone and muscle health and patient education. The medal recognizes his dedication to expanding IOF's mess...
Study shows hip fracture risk rises in the 10 years after total knee replacement
Research shows that patients with total knee replacement due to primary osteoarthritis have a low risk of hip and vertebral fractures before and after surgery. However, the risk increases by 19% for vertebral fracture and 4% for hip fracture in the years following surgery.
Herbert A. Fleisch ESCEO-IOF Medal 2016 awarded to Professor René Rizzoli
Professor René Rizzoli, a leading Swiss investigator, has been awarded the ESCEO-IOF Medal for his groundbreaking work in basic bone science. The medal recognizes his contributions to understanding bone and mineral metabolism, with over 800 publications to his name.
New computational method reveals significant degeneration of knee cartilage in overweight people
A new computational modelling method developed by the University of Eastern Finland uses MRI data to assess the patient-specific progression of osteoarthritis in the knee joint. The study found significant degeneration in overweight individuals, with healthy cartilage thickness remaining unchanged over a four-year period.
The Lancet: Paracetamol 'not clinically effective' in treating osteoarthritis pain or improving physical function
A large-scale analysis of pain-relief medication for osteoarthritis found that paracetamol does not meet the minimum standard of clinical effectiveness in reducing pain or improving physical function. Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), was found to be more effective for short-term pain relief.
Findings do not support use of vitamin D to reduce pain from knee osteoarthritis
A study of 413 patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis found that vitamin D supplementation did not slow cartilage loss or reduce knee pain over 2 years. Vitamin D levels increased, but no significant benefits were seen.
Tissue fluid flow can reveal onset of osteoarthritis
Researchers found that damage to cartilage's collagen network and increased fluid flow are early indicators of osteoarthritis. The study suggests that understanding these structural changes could lead to earlier detection and better treatment of the disease.
Treatments that reduce knee buckling may help prevent falls in older adults
A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that knee buckling is a significant cause of falls and injuries in older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Targeted exercises and joint replacement surgery may help prevent knee instability and reduce the risk of falls.
Intense work helped Michelangelo maintain use of hands despite osteoarthritis
Researchers analyzed three portraits of Michelangelo between the ages of 60 and 65, showing non-inflammatory degenerative changes in his hands. The continuous and intense work may have helped him maintain hand function for as long as possible, despite the onset of osteoarthritis.
Morbidly obese patients may benefit from bariatric surgery prior to knee replacement
A new study supports bariatric surgery in morbidly obese patients with end-stage osteoarthritis prior to total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. The evaluation predicts improved quality-of-life and cost-effectiveness for these patients, making it a viable treatment strategy.
SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJan 21, 2016
Genetics influences knee pain sensitivity in osteoarthritis patients
Researchers found that patients with two copies of a different allele showed more pain variability and more pain at the end of the day after physical activity. This study suggests tailored behavioral programs could be used sensitive to a person's genotype to increase physical activity and manage arthritis.
Bone marrow lesions can help predict rapidly progressing joint disease
Researchers at the University of Southampton found that bone marrow lesions on MRI scans can predict more rapid progression of osteoarthritis. Individuals with BMLs had a loss rate of 0.10mm per year faster than those without, potentially leading to earlier need for joint replacement.