KNEE ARTHROSIS AND OBESITY: ENDOCRINOLOGICAL MONITORING AND RHEUMATOLOGICAL TREATMENT

Abstract

Introduction: Knee osteoarthritis and obesity are interrelated conditions that significantly affect the quality of life of individuals. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, the prevalence of which increases with obesity, due to the increase in body weight that overloads the joints. Endocrinological monitoring and rheumatological treatment are crucial to manage these conditions, since obesity can aggravate osteoarthritis and complicate treatment. Effective management involves a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both the metabolic aspect and joint health. Objective: To evaluate the interactions between knee osteoarthritis and obesity, focusing on the role of endocrinological monitoring and rheumatological treatment, analyzing therapeutic strategies and associated clinical impacts. Methodology: For the review, the PRISMA checklist was used, consulting databases such as PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science. The descriptors used were "knee osteoarthritis", "obesity", "rheumatological treatment", "endocrinological monitoring" and "multidisciplinary interventions". Articles published in the last 10 years that addressed the treatment and management of the mentioned conditions were included. The inclusion criteria were: peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies on osteoarthritis and obesity, and publications detailing combined treatments. The exclusion criteria were: studies not directly related to the topic, articles published less than 12 months ago, and research without a focus on clinical monitoring. Results: The analysis revealed that obesity contributes to the progression of knee osteoarthritis by increasing the load on the joints and promoting chronic inflammation. Endocrinological monitoring proved to be essential in the management of obesity, while rheumatological treatment focused on reducing symptoms and preserving joint function. Strategies such as weight loss, physical exercise and pharmacological therapies stood out as effective. Conclusion: The integration of endocrinological monitoring and rheumatological treatment proved to be essential in the approach to knee osteoarthritis associated with obesity. Weight loss and appropriate management of metabolic conditions have been identified as key factors in improving clinical outcomes and quality of life for patients. Collaboration between different medical specialties has emerged as the most effective strategy for managing this dual condition.