Expert Perspectives on the Clinical Experience of Managing Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis in Indian Settings

Objective: This study aimed to gather expert opinions on the clinical experience and management of osteoporosis (OP) and osteoarthritis (OA) in Indian settings.

Methodology: The cross-sectional study utilized CORE-2, a multi-response questionnaire booklet comprising 24 questions to gather insights from experts across various regions of India. The survey included questions regarding prevalence, risk factors, screening methods, prevention, and the benefits of calcitriol, paracetamol, and tramadol for managing OP and OA symptoms. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the collected data.

Results: Out of 142 survey participants, the majority (71%) identified excessive alcohol consumption, family history, smoking, poor diet, older age, and post-menopausal status as common risk factors for OP. Nearly half (42.96%) of the experts indicated that blood tests, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, bone turnover markers, and bone mineral density (BMD) ultrasound are the most commonly utilized screening methods for OP. Around 46% of clinicians acknowledged that elevated body weight increases the risk of osteoporotic fractures. The majority (76.06%) agreed that calcitriol assists in managing fractures, with weekly dosages enhancing patient compliance and treatment efficacy in OP management. According to 63% of the experts, excess body weight was linked to an increased likelihood of OA. Approximately 58% recognized that glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) can predispose individuals to fractures and falls. Nearly 68% of clinicians favoured non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physiotherapy, diet, and exercise as initial management approaches for OA.

Conclusion: This study highlighted the roles of excessive alcohol consumption, family history, and obesity in both OA and OP. The preferred screening methods include DEXA scans and BMD ultrasounds, and calcitriol was recognized for its effectiveness in managing fractures. Furthermore, there was a consensus on the importance of lifestyle interventions, including diet, exercise, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in OA management.