Advances in the treatment of osteoarthritis

Abstract:

Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease of the entire joint characterized by the destruction and loss of articular cartilage along with other changes in joint structures, such as bone hypertrophy (formation of osteophytes). The main characteristic of the clinical picture of osteoarthritis is progressive pain that worsens or is triggered by movement, stiffness that subsides within 30 minutes after activity, and swelling of the affected joints. Diagnosis is confirmed radiographically. The treatment consists of physical therapy, pharmacotherapy, and surgery. New insights into the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis have resulted in new therapeutic possibilities for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Understanding the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis in terms of possible clinical course offers hope for finding new possibilities in the treatment of pain, such as monoclonal antibodies against neurotrophic factors and centrally acting medications such as duloxetine, tapentadol and bradykinin receptor antagonist (clinically tested in the treatment of osteoarthritis). Until now the treatment of osteoarthritis has been primarily symptomatic, while recent studies indicate the possibility of a structural treatment focused on the subchondral bone. 

Key words:
osteoarthritis; pathophysiology; treatment