634 - Comparative Analysis of Long-Term Outcomes and Safety Profiles of Corticosteroid and NSAID Use in Chronic Joint Disorders

Chronic joint disorders, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, necessitate sustained management to mitigate pain and preserve joint function. Both corticosteroid joint injections and NSAIDs are widely utilized, yet their long-term efficacy and safety profiles remain contested. This study aims to systematically review and compare the long-term outcomes and adverse effects associated with corticosteroid injections versus NSAID use in chronic joint disorders.

Design:

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Comprehensive searches of databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus identified relevant RCTs, prospective, and retrospective cohort studies published from 2000 to 2024. Included studies assess long-term outcomes (≥12 months follow-up) and safety of corticosteroid injections versus NSAIDs in patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other chronic joint disorders.

Results:

Preliminary findings suggest differential risk profiles, with corticosteroids potentially leading to greater joint damage over time, while NSAIDs are associated with higher risks of gastrointestinal and cardiovascular complications. Data synthesis includes pooled risk ratios and percentage estimates to quantify long-term adverse effects.

Conclusions:

This systematic review and meta-analysis provide a comprehensive assessment of the long-term risks and benefits of corticosteroid injections versus NSAID therapy in managing chronic joint disorders. The results will inform clinical practice by highlighting the comparative efficacy and safety of these treatments, ultimately guiding healthcare providers in optimizing therapeutic strategies for patients with chronic joint pain and inflammation.