MEDI 9331 Scholarly Activities Clinical Years
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause of long-term knee pain in adults over 45, and a leading cause of disability worldwide. About one in two people will develop it in their lifetime. This review brings together current evidence on how knee OA is diagnosed and treated, using the main clinical guidelines and the most important trials of the past ten years. The evidence points to a simple, step-by-step plan. Exercise, weight loss, and patient education are the strongly recommended first steps. Oral and topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first-choice medicines. Steroid injections into the joint help for a short time. Total knee replacement is saved for severe disease that has not responded to other care. Two problems stand out: x-ray findings often do not match how much pain a patient feels, and 10–34% of patients still have pain after knee replacement. These issues are especially relevant in Texas, where high rates of obesity and many rural and low-income communities meet well-known gaps in OA care. Patients with lower income or residence in underserved areas are less likely to receive recommended treatment or knee replacement.
Recommended Citation
Weinberg, Robert A., "Literature Review on Osteoarthritis Management" (2026). MEDI 9331 Scholarly Activities Clinical Years. 100.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/som9331/100
Academic Level
medical student
