| Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder characterized by articular cartilage degeneration, subchondral
bone changes, and joint inflammation. Among the multifaceted factors influencing OA pathogenesis, Bone Marrow
Lesions (BMLs) have become a focal point of investigation due to their association with pain, cartilage loss, and disease
progression. Recent research has identified a potential connection between knee joint morphological parameters,
particularly the Proximal Tibial Slope (PTS), and the development of BMLs. The medial aspect of the proximal tibia, in
particular, has been implicated in biomechanical stress on the knee's medial compartment. This study aims to elucidate the
association between BMLs and the Greater Medial Proximal Tibial Slope (MPTS) in middle-aged women. The focus on
middle-aged women stems from the critical juncture in life when early signs of osteoarthritis often manifest. Moreover, as
women are disproportionately affected by OA, they represent a crucial demographic for understanding disease dynamics.
This investigation seeks to unravel the biomechanical factors contributing to BML development, particularly in the context
of the MPTS. The study obtained ethical approval and involved 365 participants over a two-year period (June 2019-June
2010) at the NRI Medical College and General Hospital, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh Orthopaedic Ward. Inclusion criteria
comprised patients aged 45-60 with bone marrow lesions, and female patients without radiographic abnormalities, while
exclusion criteria included radiographic abnormalities, rheumatoid arthritis, incomplete data, and a history of knee injury.
Lifestyle habits, including drinking, smoking, and exercise frequency, were assessed through a questionnaire. General
health examinations and prophylactic interventions aimed to improve average life expectancy were conducted. The study
employs advanced imaging techniques and rigorous statistical analyses to comprehensively explore the relationship
between BMLs and the Greater Medial Proximal Tibial Slope in middle-aged women. Anticipated findings hold promise
for informing early detection and targeted interventions in osteoarthritis, contributing to enhanced patient outcomes and a
deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between knee morphology and joint healthddd |
