Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly those over 65 years old. It is a multifactorial condition involving mechanical and systemic factors, leading to structural and functional joint failure. There is no cure, and treatment focuses on pain relief and improving joint function. The condition is associated with significant personal suffering and increased use of health resources, with the burden expected to rise due to aging populations and obesity. Osteoarthritis is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and swelling. Diagnosis is typically clinical, confirmed by radiography, and may involve synovial fluid analysis to rule out other conditions. The disease can affect any synovial joint but is most common in the hands, knees, and hips. Non-pharmacological treatments, including education, weight loss, exercise, and physical therapy, are recommended as first-line interventions. These include self-management programs, weight reduction, and the use of braces or orthotics. Pharmacological treatments include paracetamol, NSAIDs, and opioids for pain management. COX-2 inhibitors carry risks of cardiovascular disease, while glucosamine and chondroitin have shown no significant benefit over placebo. Intra-articular corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid may provide short-term relief, but their long-term efficacy is limited. Surgery is considered only when other treatments fail, with joint replacement being a common option for severe cases. Osteotomy and arthroscopic debridement are debated, with limited evidence of long-term benefits. Joint replacement is effective for severe cases, with high survival rates and cost-effectiveness. Overall, a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches is recommended for managing osteoarthritis, with a focus on early intervention and patient education.Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly those over 65 years old. It is a multifactorial condition involving mechanical and systemic factors, leading to structural and functional joint failure. There is no cure, and treatment focuses on pain relief and improving joint function. The condition is associated with significant personal suffering and increased use of health resources, with the burden expected to rise due to aging populations and obesity. Osteoarthritis is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and swelling. Diagnosis is typically clinical, confirmed by radiography, and may involve synovial fluid analysis to rule out other conditions. The disease can affect any synovial joint but is most common in the hands, knees, and hips. Non-pharmacological treatments, including education, weight loss, exercise, and physical therapy, are recommended as first-line interventions. These include self-management programs, weight reduction, and the use of braces or orthotics. Pharmacological treatments include paracetamol, NSAIDs, and opioids for pain management. COX-2 inhibitors carry risks of cardiovascular disease, while glucosamine and chondroitin have shown no significant benefit over placebo. Intra-articular corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid may provide short-term relief, but their long-term efficacy is limited. Surgery is considered only when other treatments fail, with joint replacement being a common option for severe cases. Osteotomy and arthroscopic debridement are debated, with limited evidence of long-term benefits. Joint replacement is effective for severe cases, with high survival rates and cost-effectiveness. Overall, a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches is recommended for managing osteoarthritis, with a focus on early intervention and patient education.