Healthcare Engineering

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition caused in part by injury, loss of cartilage structure and function, and an imbalance in inflammatory and anti-inflammatory pathways. It primarily affects the articular cartilage and subchondral bone of synovial joints and results in joint failure, leading to pain upon weight bearing including walking and standing. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, as it is very difficult to restore the cartilage once it is destroyed. The goals of treatment are to relieve pain, maintain or improve joint mobility, increase the strength of the joints, and minimize the disabling effects of the disease. Recent studies have shown an association between dietary polyphenols and the prevention of osteoarthritis-related musculoskeletal inflammation, and that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) exercises may improve OA symptoms. This study investigates biomechanical and biochemical interventions for OA management, and evaluates their benefits in pain reduction, muscle strength, physical function, stiffness, balance, falling, self-efficacy, quality of life, and psychological outcomes in patients with OA, in collaboration with TTU Health Sciences Center.