[Treatment of osteoarthritis with drugs and other modalities]

Abstract

There is an increasing incidence in osteoarthritis, particularly following the 5th life-decade. However, also young people may suffer from severe osteoarthritis, which is estimated to be the most common cause of disability in adults resulting in substantial economic burden. To this end, effective therapies are needed. Therapeutic options are very comprehensive, which are presented in this review as non-pharmacological, pharmacological and surgical treatment modalities. Treatment efficacy will be discussed with regard to alleviation of symptoms and potential prevention of disease progression according to the given evidence.