CLINICAL EXPERIENCE IN THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS AND SPONDYLOARTHRITIS

Abstract

Background. Osteoarthritis (OA) and spondyloarthritis (SpA) are among the most common chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. According to the World Health Organization, joint diseases are among the top three leading causes of disability worldwide. In the Republic of Kazakhstan, according to data from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan and national epidemiological surveillance, the prevalence of osteoarthritis among the adult population is 12–16%, with an annual increase in incidence reaching 3–5%. The prevalence of spondyloarthritis ranges from 0.8 to 1.7%; however, the actual rates may be higher due to delayed diagnosis.
Current international recommendations from EULAR, OARSI, and ASAS emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary and stepwise approach to the management of patients with joint pathology, including pharmacological therapy, local interventions, and rehabilitation measures.
Objective. To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of a stepwise comprehensive treatment approach in patients with osteoarthritis and spondyloarthritis in real-world clinical practice.
Materials and Methods. The study included 60 patients treated at three specialized rheumatology centers in Almaty. Treatment effectiveness was assessed using the VAS and WOMAC scales, laboratory inflammatory markers, and instrumental diagnostic methods.
Results and Discussion. Comprehensive therapy resulted in a significant reduction in pain intensity, improvement in joint functional activity, and a decrease in inflammatory changes.
Conclusions. The stepwise comprehensive approach demonstrates high treatment efficacy and is consistent with current international recommendations.