[Research progress on relationship between subchondral bone and cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis].

OBJECTIVE: To review the recent research progress on relationship between subchondral bone and cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis (OA), and to predict future research directions.

METHODS: Recent literatures about the pathological changes of subchondral bone in OA were reviewed and analyzed in terms of biomechanics, bone remodeling and biological factors.

RESULTS: Subchondral bone sclerosis or softening was the result of osteoarthritis and also closely related to the occurrence and development of OA. Inhibiting the bone metabolism of subchondral bone could slow the degeneration of articular cartilage.

CONCLUSION: For the treatment of OA, it is necessary to pay close attention to cartilage changes and the prevention of subchondral bone degeneration.