What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, a chronic joint condition, is actually the most common type of arthritis. And, even though it usually shows up in people over 60, it can actually affect people who are far younger. To understand why this is so, it helps to understand what causes osteoarthritis. 

At Performance Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, in Toms River and Shrewsbury, New Jersey, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of medications and treatments for all of your health needs. That’s why we’ve composed this helpful guide to osteoarthritis, its causes, and treatments.  

What is osteoarthritis?

A condition that currently affects 27 million people, osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage, or the pliable tissues that cushion your joints, becomes damaged. This leads to symptoms like:

• Pain 
• Swelling
• Limited mobility
• Impaired flexibility

In addition to pain in your joints, you may also feel some tenderness in the area around your affected joints. You may also notice that the pain is worse with certain activities and with different weather conditions. 

Causes of osteoarthritis 

Certain factors can cause or put you at risk for developing osteoarthritis, and they include:

• Genetics - You can actually inherit a mutation in the genes that results in weaker cartilage, which makes it easier for your joints to deteriorate quicker. Additionally, if you have a spine condition like scoliosis or a genetic joint abnormality, you have a much higher chance of developing osteoarthritis. 
• Injuries - If you’ve had a major injury like a previously broken arm, leg, or knee, then your chances of developing osteoarthritis in that body part increase. It’s also common for those with back injuries to develop osteoarthritis in the spine later. 
• Overuse - Overusing certain joints increases your risk of developing osteoarthritis. For example, athletes, manual laborers, and those who perform daily repetitive motions are more likely to develop osteoarthritis. 
• Another condition - Certain conditions, like iron overload, the development of excess growth hormones, or even rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition that causes your body to attack your joints) increase your chances of developing osteoarthritis. 

How we treat osteoarthritis

Most patients with osteoarthritis are advised to turn to NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories. While these medications do reduce the inflammation and pain that comes with osteoarthritis, they are harsh on the body, especially when used for prolonged periods of time. 

We can provide you with more information on nutrition counseling and medications, so call our pharmacy at 732-691-4898, or book an appointment online to start treating your osteoarthritis in a way that’s both gentle and effective today.