Osteoarthritis - Causes - Better Medicine

What causes osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of cartilage that normally cushions the ends of bones. Primary osteoarthritis is linked to age-related wear and tear on the joint with time, but the exact cause of the loss of cartilage is not completely understood. Osteoarthritis is not a normal part of aging. Certain risk factors affect the likelihood of an older person developing the condition.

In some cases, osteoarthritis is caused by a specific injury or exacerbated by obesity. Osteoarthritis is also related to genetics, since you are more likely to develop the condition if you have a family member with osteoarthritis.

What are the risk factors for osteoarthritis?

A number of factors may increase your chances of developing osteoarthritis. Not all people with risk factors will develop osteoarthritis, and not all people with osteoarthritis have risk factors. Risk factors include:

Acromegaly (disorder in which there is excessive growth hormone, which can affect the bones and joints)
Age older than 45 years
Certain blood and circulation disorders, such as hemophilia and avascular necrosis
Family history of osteoarthritis or bone deformities
Gout
Hemochromatosis (disorder in which there is too much iron, which can damage cartilage)
Joint injury including fractures, joint dislocations, and overuse injuries
Obesity, which can put excessive pressure on the knees, hips, ankles and foot joints
Rheumatoid arthritis
Weak muscles, particularly around the knees

Reducing your risk of osteoarthritis

You can lower your risk of developing osteoarthritis by:

Maintaining a healthy weight
Participating in a regular exercise program
Seeking regular medical care and following your treatment plan for joint injuries and such conditions as gout and rheumatoid arthritis
Wearing recommended gear that protects joints during contact sports and dangerous activities

INTRODUCTION

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is an ongoing, progressive disease that causes inflammation, pain, stiffness and swelling of joints. The joints of the body are the areas where two or more bones meet. The ends of the bones are protected by a tissue called cartilage, which helps bones to move easily without damaging bone tissue. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage breaks down or becomes torn or thin, resulting ... Read more about osteoarthritis introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

The symptoms of osteoarthritis vary between individuals. At the onset of the disease, symptoms can be vague and develop slowly. Many people have no symptoms in the early stages of osteoarthritis.... Read more about osteoarthritis symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is osteoarthritis treated?

Treatment plans for osteoarthritis use a multifaceted approach and are individualized to the stage and advancement of the disease, and your age, medical history, and coexisting diseases or conditions. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but with early recognition and treatment, it is possible to minimize or delay joint damage and complications, such as chronic pain and disability.... Read more about osteoarthritis treatments