From images to data to theory.

The article discusses advances in imaging technology which detailed theories about the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis (OA) in 2013. The advances are attributed to the use of semiquantitative and qualitative image analysis methodology and the availability of public databases. Theories on the relationship between obesity, leptin and OA, knee radiographic OA (ROA) and the application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to the meniscus are enriched with the use of the technology.