238. Osteoarthritis as a Systemic Disease w/ Kelsey Collins

Osteoarthritis functions as a systemic disease rather than a purely local "wear and tear" phenomenon. Traditional models focusing solely on mechanical loading and cartilage degradation fail to account for the complex interplay between systemic factors like metabolic health, adipose tissue, sex, and inflammation. Adipose tissue, particularly the infrapatellar fat pad, secretes inflammatory mediators that contribute to joint pain and pathology, often independent of structural damage seen on imaging. Consequently, clinical management should shift toward holistic health strategies, emphasizing consistent movement and muscle quality over fear-avoidant behaviors. While joint replacement remains a viable option for severe cases, it does not always resolve pain, highlighting the need for early intervention through exercise and metabolic management to improve long-term health span and functional outcomes.