JIGSAW-A is at the forefront of promoting the systematic adoption of internationally recognised guidelines and quality standards for osteoarthritis (OA) across a network of ten collaborative sites in the dynamic region of West Africa. This ambitious initiative has a clear mission: to establish a consistent and exceptional standard of care for OA, a widespread and often debilitating chronic joint condition. Equally vital is JIGSAW-A’s dedication to empowering patients with knowledge and self management skills, putting them in the driver’s seat of their healthcare journey.

In the multifaceted realm of OA management, JIGSAW-A prioritises the implementation of top tier non-pharmacological therapies. These encompass an array of strategies that bring relief and improvement to patients’ lives. The approach begins with the provision of informative patient education materials, aimed at enhancing understanding and decision-making. Physical health is fostered through tailored exercise programs, coupled with recommendations for increased physical activity that are adapted to the unique needs of each individual. Furthermore, guidance on diet and weight management forms an integral part of this comprehensive program, recognising the profound impact that lifestyle choices can have on OA progression and symptom management.