Introduction and Pathophysiology of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the leading causes of chronic pain worldwide, placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems as well as on economic and social resources. Contrary to the traditional view that osteoarthritis is merely the result of age-related mechanical wear and tear, modern biomedical research has redefined OA as a whole-joint disorder involving the progressive degeneration of multiple joint structures.

The pathophysiology of osteoarthritis is complex and multifactorial. It is characterized by the deterioration of articular cartilage, abnormal remodeling of the subchondral bone, formation of osteophytes (bone spurs), meniscal damage, and, notably, the presence of chronic low-grade synovial inflammation. These pathological changes interact and contribute to joint pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and a decline in overall quality of life.

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