7 Common Causes of Osteoarthritis

OA tends to run in the family, especially if you have genetic joint defects. You’re more likely to suffer from OA symptoms if your parents, grandparents, or siblings have the condition. 

If your relatives have symptoms of joint pain, get the details before making a doctor’s appointment. Diagnosis of arthritis relies heavily on medical history as well as a physical examination. 

Learning about your family’s health history can help your doctor come up with an appropriate treatment plan for you. 

Gender also plays a role in osteoarthritis. Overall, more women than men develop the progressive symptoms of OA. 

The two sexes are on equal ground: roughly the same amount of each gender is affected by arthritis, until around age 55, according to the NLM. 

After that, women are more likely to have OA than men of the same age. 

The trauma of a sports injury can cause osteoarthritis in adults of any age. Common injuries that may lead to OA include: 

• torn cartilage 

• dislocated joints 

• ligament injuries 

 
Sports-related knee trauma, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) strains and tears, are particularly problematic. They’ve been linked to an increased risk of later developing OA, according to research published in Open Orthopedics Journal.  

In some cases, what you do for a living (or a hobby) could lead to arthritis. OA is sometimes referred to as a “wear and tear” disease. Repetitive strain in your joints can cause the cartilage to wear down prematurely. 

People who perform certain activities in their jobs for hours at a time may be more likely to develop joint pain and stiffness. This includes: 

• physical labor 

• kneeling 

• squatting 

• climbing stairs 

 
The joints that are commonly affected by occupation-related OA include: 

• hands 

• knees 

• hips 

Osteoarthritis affects people of all ages, genders, and sizes. However, your risk for developing the condition increases if you’re overweight. 

Excess body weight places additional stress on your joints, especially your: 

• knees 

• hips 

• back 

 
OA can also cause cartilage damage, the hallmark of the condition. If you’re concerned about your risk, or already feeling joint pain, talk to your doctor about an appropriate weight loss plan. 

Medical conditions that involve bleeding near a joint can cause osteoarthritis to become worse or new symptoms to develop. 

People with the bleeding disorder hemophilia, or avascular necrosis — the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply — could also experience symptoms associated with OA. 

You’re also more at risk for OA if you have other forms of arthritis, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis. 

Osteoarthritis is a chronic and progressive medical condition. Most people find that their symptoms increase over time. 

Although OA doesn’t have a cure, there are different treatments available to ease your pain and maintain your mobility. 

Early treatment means less time in pain, and more time living life to its fullest.