This review explores the applications of hydrogels in osteoarthritis (OA) treatment, emphasizing their multifunctional properties and potential for targeted therapy. Hydrogels, which are three-dimensional, hydrophilic networks composed of polymers and water, offer advantages such as sustained drug release, biocompatibility, and the ability to support cartilage repair. The review highlights the shift from traditional natural hydrogels to synthetic and composite hydrogels, which provide superior mechanical properties and biodegradability. Novel applications such as injectable hydrogels, microneedle technology, and responsive hydrogels are discussed, showcasing their role in improving OA treatment through targeted delivery and efficient therapeutic outcomes. The integration of bioactive compounds and the development of protein-based and superlubricating hydrogels are also examined, with the latter offering exceptional low-friction properties to reduce joint inflammation. The review also addresses the potential of hydrogels in providing tailored, minimally invasive treatments, underscoring their critical role in advancing biomaterial science for OA management. The article discusses various hydrogel types, including natural and synthetic hydrogels, their cross-linking methods, and their applications in drug delivery and cell carrier therapies. It highlights the importance of hydrogel research in OA treatment, emphasizing the need for continued innovation to enhance their functionality and effectiveness.This review explores the applications of hydrogels in osteoarthritis (OA) treatment, emphasizing their multifunctional properties and potential for targeted therapy. Hydrogels, which are three-dimensional, hydrophilic networks composed of polymers and water, offer advantages such as sustained drug release, biocompatibility, and the ability to support cartilage repair. The review highlights the shift from traditional natural hydrogels to synthetic and composite hydrogels, which provide superior mechanical properties and biodegradability. Novel applications such as injectable hydrogels, microneedle technology, and responsive hydrogels are discussed, showcasing their role in improving OA treatment through targeted delivery and efficient therapeutic outcomes. The integration of bioactive compounds and the development of protein-based and superlubricating hydrogels are also examined, with the latter offering exceptional low-friction properties to reduce joint inflammation. The review also addresses the potential of hydrogels in providing tailored, minimally invasive treatments, underscoring their critical role in advancing biomaterial science for OA management. The article discusses various hydrogel types, including natural and synthetic hydrogels, their cross-linking methods, and their applications in drug delivery and cell carrier therapies. It highlights the importance of hydrogel research in OA treatment, emphasizing the need for continued innovation to enhance their functionality and effectiveness.