Dr David Hunter
campaign to combat osteoarthritis care misinformation Coinciding with World Arthritis Day, researchers at the Kolling Institute are urging the community to avoid low-value osteoarthritis care, in favour of evidence- based resources. https://vimeo.com/1105012222 • Participate: Osteoarthritis Research
Participant Network - Connects Australians with relevant research opportunities: https://www. osteoarthritisresearch.com.au/oa- participant-network The resources were developed as many Australians continue to manage their 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. • 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 David. “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.”
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and one of the leading causes of disability globally. It affects over two million people in Australia alone, and yet there is a critical gap in care, with many people provided with outdated advice, and low-value treatments. Leading rheumatologist 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 the community to four trusted, easy-to-access resources to broaden their understanding of the condition and practical steps to manage it. These include: • Read: Plain-language guides, tools, and strategies for daily management: https:// myoa.org.au • Listen: Joint Action Podcast - Expert and lived experience episodes: https:// podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/joint- action/id1508969582 • Watch: Osteoarthritis Essentials Webinar - Practical tips for managing osteoarthritis pain in just 30 minutes:
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NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 19| 17 OCTOBER 2025
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