Joint Action is a podcast hosted by David Hunter.
As a consequence of isolation, those living with osteoarthritis related disability may become less fit, more depressed and anxious, more socially isolated and gain weight. It is critical at times like this that people with osteoarthritis have their burden and disability minimised and their knowledge of how to manage the disease enhanced. Join David as he interviews the world's leading experts in osteoarthritis.
Professor David Hunter is a rheumatology clinician researcher whose main research focus has been clinical and translational research in osteoarthritis. He is the Florance and Cope Chair of Rheumatology and Professor of Medicine at University of Sydney and the Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia. He is ranked as the worlds leading expert in osteoarthritis on Expertscape.com since 2014.
You can send in your questions to hello@jointaction.info and follow us on Twitter @jointactionorg and @ProfDavidHunter
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Joint Action is a podcast hosted by David Hunter.
As a consequence of isolation, those living with osteoarthritis related disability may become less fit, more depressed and anxious, more socially isolated and gain weight. It is critical at times like this that people with osteoarthritis have their burden and disability minimised and their knowledge of how to manage the disease enhanced. Join David as he interviews the world's leading experts in osteoarthritis.
Professor David Hunter is a rheumatology clinician researcher whose main research focus has been clinical and translational research in osteoarthritis. He is the Florance and Cope Chair of Rheumatology and Professor of Medicine at University of Sydney and the Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia. He is ranked as the worlds leading expert in osteoarthritis on Expertscape.com since 2014.
You can send in your questions to hello@jointaction.info and follow us on Twitter @jointactionorg and @ProfDavidHunter
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Dribbling into discovery - on this episode of Joint Action, we are joined by Dr John Drazan to learn more about how he is using basketball to inspire the next generation of scientists. Dr John Drazan is an Assistant Professor of biomedical engineering at Fairfield University where he studies the relationship between muscle structure and function to understand how muscles remodel in response to aging, injury, or training.
He is an award-winning STEM educator and former collegiate basketball player who runs STEM focused clinics to encourage student interest in maths, science, technology and engineering. His innovative programs have reached over 25,000 students across the USA.
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If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to learn more about osteoarthritis from the world's leading experts! And please let us know what you thought by leaving us a review!
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Did you know your beliefs about osteoarthritis could be making your symptoms worse? In this re-aired episode from Season 5, Episode 1 of Joint Action, physiotherapist and health communication expert Dr Ben Darlow joins us to explore how common misconceptions - like “wear and tear” or “bone on bone” - can limit your activity and shape your treatment choices. We discuss the power of language, the importance of hope, and how better understanding can help you take control of your health.
Whether you're living with osteoarthritis, supporting someone who is, or working in healthcare, this conversation is a must-listen.
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If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to learn more about osteoarthritis from the world's leading experts! And please let us know what you thought by leaving us a review!
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Methotrexate is a well-established drug used in oncology, but could it also play a role in managing osteoarthritis? In this episode of Joint Action, Professor David Hunter is joined by Dr Anna Døssing and Professor Robin Christensen to explore the potential of methotrexate as a treatment for osteoarthritis pain.
They discuss:
Tune in for an honest, data-driven conversation about repurposing an old drug for a new purpose - and what it could mean for people living with osteoarthritis.
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Metformin is one of the world’s most prescribed drugs for type 2 diabetes - but could it also help with knee osteoarthritis? In this episode of Joint Action, Prof. David Hunter is joined by Prof. Flavia Cicuttini to unpack the results of a groundbreaking clinical trial that tested metformin as a new treatment for knee pain in people with knee osteoarthritis. Tune in to hear what the study found, how the drug works, who might benefit, and what this could mean for delaying joint replacement.
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In this episode of Joint Action, Professor David Hunter is joined by Dr. Stephanie Mathies and Dr. Giovanni Ferreira to unpack the cost-effectiveness of osteoarthritis treatments. They discuss the results of their recent systematic review, which analysed over 100 studies to identify which guideline-recommended treatments provide the best value for money.
From exercise and medications to injections and surgery, they explore which interventions are truly cost-effective - and which may not be worth the spend. Learn why “simple things” like exercise and education still offer the most value, and what this means for patients, clinicians, and healthcare policy.
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Article:
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In this week's episode of Joint Action, Professor David Hunter is joined by Dr Sarah Kobayashi, a lecturer in anatomy and osteoarthritis researcher, to talk about the power of walking - especially for people with osteoarthritis.
Sarah shares her insights into the many health benefits of walking, why it’s so important for joint health, and how to overcome common barriers to getting started. She also introduces the CASCADE-OA study (Community bAsed phySical aCtivity AnD sElf-management for OsteoArthritis), a 12-month clinical trial exploring the effectiveness of a self-directed walking program, Walk With Ease Australia, in improving physical activity levels and managing symptoms for those with hip or knee osteoarthritis.
Whether you're new to walking or looking to establish a sustainable routine, this episode offers practical advice and motivation to help you take that first step.
RESOURCES
Learn more about the CASCADE-OA study and check your eligibility:
Ask your local arthritis organisation about Walk With Ease or the CASCADE-OA study:
Additional resources:
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Running often gets a bad rap when it comes to knee osteoarthritis - but is the fear justified? In this week's episode of Joint Action, Professor David Hunter speaks with physiotherapist and researcher Dr Jean-François Esculier to unpack common myths about running and joint health. They explore the latest evidence, share tips for safe running with OA, and discuss how to build joint resilience over time.
Tune in to learn why running might not just be safe - it could even be helpful.
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High heels have long been associated with fashion - but what impact do they have on your joints? This week, Professor David Hunter is joined by physiotherapist and footwear researcher Dr. Kathryn Mills to unpack the biomechanics of high heels and their effect on knee health.
From changes in posture and joint compression to the importance of shoe comfort and replacement, this episode blends science with practical advice for anyone managing knee pain or osteoarthritis. Plus, learn what to look for in a good shoe and when to seek professional help from a podiatrist or physiotherapist.
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Can joint replacements reduce pain, help you move more - and live longer? In this week's podcast episode, we explore the untold benefits of hip and knee replacements beyond pain relief. Dr Tim Lindsay, clinician and researcher at Imperial College London, joins us to share insights from large-scale studies that show how joint replacement can restore physical activity levels and potentially reduce premature mortality. We also discuss why recovery takes time, how expectations should be managed, and what patients can realistically achieve after surgery. If you're considering joint replacement or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers evidence-based clarity and hope.
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In this episode of Joint Action, Professor David Hunter is joined by Dr. Bruno da Costa, Associate Professor of Clinical Epidemiology at the University of Toronto and Senior Scientist at the University of Oxford, to unpack the evidence behind injections for osteoarthritis.
Dr. da Costa shares insights from his recent systematic review and network meta-analysis of clinical trials, revealing just how limited - and at times unreliable - the evidence is for many joint injection therapies.
This episode explores:
If you’ve ever considered injection therapy, this episode will help you sort fact from fiction.
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For too long, people living with osteoarthritis have felt powerless - like there’s nothing they can do to influence change. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In this powerful episode, Prof. David Hunter is joined by Louise Hardy, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Arthritis Australia, to explore how individuals can use their voice to drive meaningful change - especially in the lead-up to the Australian federal election.
Louise shares practical ways you can support better care, fairer funding, and more accessible services for the 7 million Australians living with arthritis. They discuss the importance of community-led advocacy, out-of-pocket costs, gaps in clinical care, and how you can be part of the solution, today.
Whether you live in Australia or abroad, this episode offers a roadmap for how your voice can make a difference - starting now.
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MRIs are increasingly used to detect early signs of osteoarthritis - but are they truly beneficial for most people? On this week's episode, we examine the role of MRI scans in diagnosing knee osteoarthritis, particularly in its early stages. Joined by leading experts Dr. Alison Chang, a professor of Physical Therapy at Northwestern University, and Dr. Ali Guermazi, a Radiology professor at Boston University, we explore the genuine value of MRIs. Our discussion highlights when these imaging tests can be helpful and when they might lead to unnecessary interventions. We also discuss why many MRI-detected changes don't actually progress into osteoarthritis and share practical advice for effectively managing knee health.
Tune in for an evidence-based conversation to understand when MRIs truly add value - and when they may not.
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What if you could know your risk of developing osteoarthritis years before symptoms appear? In this episode, we explore whether a blood test could provide those answers.
Joining us on this week's episode is Dr. Virginia Kraus, a leading rheumatologist and researcher, to discuss her study that identified osteoarthritis risk up to 10 years in advance with 77% accuracy. We unpack what this means for early detection, the role of inflammation in disease progression, and how this research could shape future treatment and prevention strategies.
Tune in to find out what the future of osteoarthritis detection could look like.
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Menopause is often referred to as "the change" and remains a complex and sensitive topic for many. Despite being historically under-discussed, it's crucial to address because of its profound impact on musculoskeletal health. Women are two to three times more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis, particularly around menopause. Changes in hormones, such as declining estrogen, can affect cartilage, bone density, inflammation, muscle health, and body weight - factors closely linked to joint pain and osteoarthritis symptoms.
In this episode of the Joint Action Podcast, Dr. Ginny Mansberg, a GP and women's health expert, joins Prof. David Hunter to explore the intricate relationship between menopause and osteoarthritis. They discuss the physical and emotional challenges women face, including sleep disruption, weight gain, joint pain, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Dr. Mansberg shares valuable insights into how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and lifestyle strategies, including exercise, can help manage symptoms and improve long-term health outcomes.
Whether you're navigating menopause or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a compassionate, evidence-informed perspective on understanding and managing the journey.
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In this special episode of Joint Action, host Professor David Hunter brings together the most valuable insights from over 100 episodes, creating a practical guide to understanding and managing osteoarthritis. By summarising years of expert advice, groundbreaking research, and real-world strategies, this episode makes it easy to access the latest information on osteoarthritis in one comprehensive discussion.
Key topics include:
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, managing osteoarthritis for years, or looking to prevent it, this episode provides essential, evidence-based insights to improve your quality of life.
RESOURCES
Joint Action Care Supplements: https://jointactioncare.com/
The ATLAS Study: www.osteoarthritisresearch.com.au/atlas-study-overview
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Join us for a unique and inspiring episode of the Joint Action podcast, where we step into a stylised clinical encounter between Professor Shannon Mihalko, acting as the clinician, and Tom Buttel, the patient. Together, they delve into the realities of living with osteoarthritis, sharing powerful insights into overcoming challenges, setting meaningful goals, and adopting holistic management strategies.
From the importance of building a strong relationship with your healthcare team to Tom's personal tips for staying active, managing pain, and fostering self-compassion, this episode is packed with practical advice and relatable moments. Whether you're looking to better manage your joint health or simply find inspiration in someone else's journey, this conversation is not to be missed. Tune in and discover how small, sustainable changes can lead to lasting health benefits.
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Welcome to Season 6 of the Joint Action Podcast and the first episode of 2025! We're kicking off with a crucial topic in advancing osteoarthritis treatment: understanding clinical trials.
Clinical trials are vital for developing new treatments for osteoarthritis, yet many people are mystified by the process. Why participate? What are the benefits? What are the risks? In this episode, we break it all down with Dr. Karen Bracken, Clinical Trial Program Lead at the Kolling Institute, University of Sydney. With over 20 years of experience managing clinical trials, Karen provides an insider’s perspective on the motivations, processes, and considerations involved in clinical research.
Join us as we explore:
We also discuss exciting ongoing trials, including the ATLAS study for knee osteoarthritis, the TOPS osteoarthritis prevention study, and the MARVEL study exploring the impact of pentosan polysulfate sodium on knee pain.
Whether you're curious about clinical trials or considering participating in one, this episode offers valuable insights to guide your journey.
RESOURCES
To learn more about osteoarthritis clinical trials, visit our website: www.osteoarthritisresearch.com.au
To learn more about the Osteoarthritis Research Participant Network or to join, click here: www.osteoarthritisresearch.com.au/oa-participant-network
Current osteoarthritis studies:
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In our final episode for 2024, we answer your burning questions about osteoarthritis! Host Professor David Hunter dives deep into a variety of listener-submitted topics, including:
With engaging insights, evidence-based answers, and a personal touch, this Q&A episode wraps up the year with invaluable guidance for managing joint health.
Thank you for being part of the Joint Action community. We look forward to continuing to bring you the latest in osteoarthritis research and care in 2025.
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This week on the Joint Action podcast, we’re joined by Professor Henning Bliddal, a leading researcher and Director at the Parker Institute in Denmark. Henning Bliddal has spent his career helping people with osteoarthritis live better lives.
In this episode, we talk about a breakthrough study using a medication called Semaglutide. This drug, originally made to help with weight loss, has shown amazing results in easing pain and improving movement for people with knee osteoarthritis. Henning explains how weight loss can take the pressure off your joints and why this is so important for managing knee osteoarthritis.
We cover:
If you’re curious about the latest in osteoarthritis research and want practical tips for managing symptoms, join us on this week's episode.
RESOURCES
Have a question about osteoarthritis that you'd like answered? Send your question to osteoarthritis.research@sydney.edu.au by 16th December 2024 for a chance to have it featured in the final episode for 2024.
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Ever wonder if the weather really impacts your joint pain? If you've ever felt like cold, damp days make your knees ache more, you're not alone - many people with osteoarthritis believe there's a strong link between weather and joint pain. But is there really a connection?
In this episode of the Joint Action Podcast, we're joined by Professor Manuela Ferreira, a leading clinician scientist in musculoskeletal health, to dig into this fascinating topic. We explore whether there's any scientific basis for the weather-pain connection, and why you might feel more joint symptoms during certain weather conditions. Professor Ferreira shares insights from her research and provides practical advice on managing joint pain - whether it's a hot, humid day or a freezing winter morning.
Join us as we disentangle the myths from the facts and provide clarity on what you can do to manage your symptoms better. Tune in to find out if the weather really is to blame for your aching joints!
RESOURCES
Have a question about osteoarthritis that you'd like answered? Send your question to osteoarthritis.research@sydney.edu.au by 16th December 2024 for a chance to have it featured in the final episode for 2024.
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