Unquiet Bodies: Living with Osteoarthritis and Chronic Pain in a Shifting World

This is a four-episode podcast series supported by Viatris.

The views and opinions expressed in these podcasts are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of  Viatris or EMJ. Speakers have received honoraria for their participation. 

Episode 1: The Gender Gap: Exploring Differences in Chronic Pain

Understanding Sex-Based Disparities in Pain Perception and Management

Chronic pain, particularly in the context of rheumatic diseases, represents one of the most pervasive global health challenges, affecting over one-quarter of the world’s population. In recent decades, the influence of gender on pain perception and management has emerged as a significant focus of both scientific inquiry and clinical practice. 

Epidemiological data consistently demonstrate that women are disproportionately affected by chronic pain syndromes, including musculoskeletal pain. Compared to men, women tend to exhibit a lower pain threshold and heightened pain sensitivity. These differences are not only quantitative but also qualitative, with phenomena such as allodynia and secondary hyperalgesia appearing more pronounced in female patients. Moreover, psychosocial factors, such as individual pain history and levels of anxiety, may further modulate pain experiences in women. These observations align with the biopsychosocial model of pain, which posits that biological, psychological, and social dimensions collectively shape the pain experience.

Topics Covered:

• Gender differences in chronic pain  
• Placebo/nocebo effect within the biopsychosocial model of pain 
• Past and present management of women’s pain

1. Associate Professor at the MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre (MRC LEC), University of Southampton; Honorary Consultant Rheumatologist at University Hospitals Southampton, UK 
2. Anaesthesiologist, Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa 

Episode 2: AI in Healthcare: Trust, Transformation, and the Human Touch

Can AI Help Doctors Be More Human?

A recent survey among 2,000 patients in the USA revealed a growing openness to AI in healthcare, especially when it enhances time with physicians. The majority of patients support AI tools if used as ambient listening devices leading to more direct interaction with the HCP allowing more face-to-face time. However, concerns remain, particularly around AI when used for diagnosis. 55% of patients still feel uneasy about AI making clinical decisions. Therefore, there is an increasing request for transparency when AI is used in this case and for follow-ups like lab results. However, it might be recognised that if AI is used automating repetitive tasks and expanding care capacity, it might support healthcare workforce current crisis. Ultimately, the future of AI in healthcare depends on trust, transparency, and collaboration, with both patients and providers at the centre. 

Topics Covered:

• How patients currently feel about AI used in the healthcare system
• Reduction of HCPs cognitive workload thanks to AI 
• Building confidence in AI but keeping human in the loop 

1. Associate Professor at the MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre (MRC LEC), University of Southampton; Honorary Consultant Rheumatologist at University Hospitals Southampton, UK 
2. Anaesthesiologist, Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa 

Episode 3: Invisible Burdens: The Psychosocial Toll of Osteoarthritis  

Exploring the Human Side of Osteoarthritis

OA is no longer just a “wear and tear” condition. It’s a complex, multifactorial disease shaped by inflammation, biomechanics, genetics, and lifestyle. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can shift the course, preventing progression and unlocking the body’s potential for self-healing. Today’s OA care is moving beyond symptom management. Personalised treatment, interdisciplinary support, and patient empowerment through education and lifestyle changes are redefining what’s possible. With emerging tools and a fresh clinical mindset, the future of OA management is proactive, hopeful, and tailored to each individual.

Topics Covered:

• The complexity of pain, beyond biology
• The power of validation in patient care
• Self-healing as a new paradigm for patient’s empowerment

1. Associate Professor at the MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre (MRC LEC), University of Southampton; Honorary Consultant Rheumatologist at University Hospitals Southampton, UK
2. Research Unit of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Oulu, Finland

Episode 4: Joints & Journeys: Pain, Progress, and Possibility

From Diagnosis to Empowerment

The evolving understanding of OA is reshaping how we diagnose, treat, and support patients. As research advances, OA is no longer viewed as cartilage-centric disease, but increasingly recognised as a complex mechanical inflammatory condition . This shift in perspective is transforming how OA is identified, managed, and experienced across the care pathway. Early intervention remains essential, before irreversible joint damage occurs. With personalised care, interdisciplinary support, and empowering strategies such as education and lifestyle modification, patients can take a more active role in their OA journey. Emerging tools and a proactive clinical mindset are paving the way for improved outcomes and a more positive future.

Topics Covered:

• Redefining osteoarthritis beyond the “wear and tear” concept
• The window of opportunity in early OA
• Empowering patients through education and interdisciplinary care

1. Associate Professor at the MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre (MRC LEC), University of Southampton; Honorary Consultant Rheumatologist at University Hospitals Southampton, UK
2. Research Unit of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Oulu, Finland

For more Viatris-sponsored content covering Osteoarthritis, you can view an infographic here,  interact with an OA case study, or listen to a podcast here.