Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that limits the person’s ability to move. The causes of osteoarthritis are unknown, but there are many factors that exacerbate an individual’s risk of developing it. This article will list common causes of osteoarthritis, from age to physical trauma.
Despite what has led to this condition, it is essential to seek the expert medical advice of a hip and knee replacement specialist braselton to select the best treatment option for a person.
Anyways, let us see into the main factors that increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
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Aging
Aging is believed to be the main cause of degenerative joint diseases, including osteoarthritis. In fact, aging can take a toll on our joints. As the years pass by, every person develops cartilage that wears out and loosens our joints, causing stiffness and pain. The risk of osteoarthritis increases significantly with age as well as people who are affected by obesity or chronic conditions like diabetes cannot escape from developing this condition.
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Being overweight or obese
Obesity and chronic diseases like diabetes increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Excess abdominal pressure exerted by the body on the joints can cause the cartilage to wear out and lose its elasticity, and become thickened due to adipose tissue, which results in arthritis. Also, people who are overweight or obese can easily sustain a slip and fall injury, which can aggravate arthritis.
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History of injury or surgery to a joint
An injury or surgery to a joint can cause osteoarthritis to develop. A simple injury may worsen the condition. Likewise, surgery can damage the joint and cause inflammation, which increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
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Overuse from repetitive movements of the joint
Repetitive movements, especially the knee joint, can cause osteoarthritis to develop. In fact, this is why athletes and some people who have jobs that require a great deal of squatting or kneeling are at greater risk of developing osteoarthritis.
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Joints that do not form correctly
If the joints do not form correctly, their cartilage can wear out and lose its elasticity. This is why people suffering from other joint problems are at greater risk of developing osteoarthritis.
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Family history of osteoarthritis
The risk of developing osteoarthritis can be passed down from parents to their children. A person’s genetic makeup heavily influences the development of this condition. A child whose parents suffer from osteoarthritis is at high risk of developing it too.
