The prevalence of osteoarthritis is underreported and often flies under the radar of the C-suite when health improvement initiatives are targeted. As a result, there is little awareness among employees about osteoarthritis prevention and management.

Current strategies for the management of osteoarthritis are mainly reactive, focused on treating associated pain and limitations in physical functioning. There is a need for initiatives that center around earlier detection and diagnosis of those at risk. Workplace strategies should also support individuals who have been diagnosed and are symptomatic, with the patient-centered care, tools and resources necessary to better manage the physical, emotional and social impacts of the disease.