Co-inciding with World Arthritis Day (12 October), researchers from the University of Sydney and the Kolling Institue are urging the community to avoid low-value osteoarthritis care, in favour of evidenced-based resources to help manage the condition.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and one of the leading causes of disability globally. It affects over 2 million people in Australia alone, and yet there is a critical gap in care, with the majority of people often provided with outdated advice, and low-value treatments.
Leading rheumatologist, and University of Sydney and Kolling Institute researcher Professor David Hunter said when it comes to osteoarthritis treatments, many people are wasting their time and money.
“By dispelling common myths and providing people with evidence-based knowledge, we can empower them to improve their pain, mobility, and quality of life,” he said.
Researchers have joined a campaign with Arthritis Australia to focus on empowerment through knowledge. It directs people to four trusted, easy-to-access resources to broaden their understanding of the condition and practical steps to manage it.
Practical, Proven, and Free - Four Resources That Make a Difference:
● Read: MyOA - Plain-language guides, tools, and strategies for daily management
● Listen: Joint Action Podcast - Expert and lived experience episodes
● Watch: OA Essentials Webinar - Practical tips for managing OA pain in just 30 minutes
● Participate: OA Research Participant Network - Connects Australians with relevant research opportunities. Click here for more details:
“These resources are clear, credible, and freely available,” said Louise Hardy, Interim CEO of Arthritis Australia.
“The more people we can reach through trusted organisations, newsletters, and social media, the more likely they are to feel confident in managing their condition.”
Many Australians are still managing osteoarthritis based on myths and misinformation like:
● Avoiding exercise out of fear — when movement is one of the most effective ways to reduce pain and improve function
● Using opioids — despite strong recommendations against their use for OA
● Paying for expensive treatments like stem cells and platelet rich plasma — current evidence suggests these are no more effective than salt water injections
● Believing surgery is inevitable — when a joint replacement isn’t in most people’s future
● Overlooking the impact of small changes — even modest weight loss and diet shifts reduce pain and load
“Too many Australians are still being told there’s nothing they can do, and that’s simply not true,” said Professor Hunter.
“The key is making small, consistent changes in line with what the evidence supports. If in doubt, stick to the basics: move regularly and gently, understand which treatments are truly effective, and surround yourself with a support network that helps motivate you.”