Abstract
The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) has been rising, and despite the many years of scientific research and evidence collection, OA remains a medical issue where effective interventions are limited due to the complexity and heterogeneity of the disease, the disconnect between symptoms and structural changes, and potential demands from an authoritative standpoint. Though randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are considered the gold standard in research, they might not be as applicable in the context of OA research. Hence, this editorial aims to investigate alternative trial designs and highlight the strengths and limitations of their utilization to develop effective interventions and treatments, which may ultimately lower the OA burden and improve patient outcomes.