604: The Future of Arthritis Treatments with Dr. Tonia Vincent
Jan 24, 2024
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Dr. Tonia Vincent, a rheumatology expert, discusses the future of arthritis treatments, exploring cartilage regeneration and the benefits of exercise. They explore the risks of anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections and discuss alternative treatments like PRP injections and stem cells. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of prevention and maintaining good health, explores the controversy surrounding canola oil, and highlights the significance of heart rate variability in measuring well-being.
Osteoarthritis affects up to 50% of people over 65 years old, commonly in knees, hips, and hands.
Understanding articular cartilage repair and the role of mechanical stress can lead to improved osteoarthritis treatments.
Deep dives
Different types of arthritis
There are two types of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is more common and affects up to 50% of the population over 65 years old. It commonly affects the knees, hips, and hands.
Confusion in arthritis treatment
Treating osteoarthritis can be confusing, with advice to exercise and rest, and different opinions on anti-inflammatory drugs. A PhD researcher specializing in rheumatology discusses the complexities and sheds light on potential treatment approaches.
Mechanisms of cartilage repair
The researcher discusses their work on the mechanisms of articular cartilage repair. They explain how mechanical stress plays a significant role in triggering the intrinsic repair response of cartilage. They also highlight the importance of understanding the injury stress response in joint health.
Osteoarthritis as a failure of repair
The researcher describes osteoarthritis as a disease of failed repair rather than just an inflammatory condition. They explain that there is ongoing repair happening in the joint, but it doesn't fully complete. This understanding opens possibilities for therapeutic interventions to enhance the repair process.
Osteoarthritis, the wear and tear inflammation of your joints, is so common that some research suggests half of us over the age of 65 will be affected. You’ve probably heard that movement is medicine, but how much movement? And while ibuprofen helps, is long-term use safe? What about all the weird and expensive treatment options? On this week’s podcast, you’ll meet a Professor and rheumatology expert whose work is focused on finding solutions for this common disease.
Listen and learn:
Which helpful medications might be approved
Risk vs reward of ibuprofen and injections
Joint distraction
Practical planning for managing your condition
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Tonia Vincent, a Professor of Musculoskeletal Biology at the University of Oxford specializing in Rheumatology. She focuses on understanding osteoarthritis.