What Causes Osteoarthritis in the Knee? Here’s What to Know
We understand the challenges of living with knee osteoarthritis at Texas Knee Institute. This common condition affects millions of people, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Understanding the causes and risk factors of knee osteoarthritis is key to managing and preventing its progression.
Contact us directly or continue reading to learn more about what causes osteoarthritis in the knee and what you can do to maintain healthy joints.
What is Osteoarthritis of the Knee?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the knee. This cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones, allowing smooth movement. Over time, the wear and tear on this protective layer can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty performing everyday activities.
While knee osteoarthritis is most commonly associated with aging, it can also result from other factors such as injuries, genetics, and lifestyle choices.
Osteoarthritis of the Knee Causes
A combination of factors influences the development of knee osteoarthritis. These include:
Age and Natural Wear and Tear
Aging is one of the primary causes of knee osteoarthritis. Due to repetitive use, the cartilage in the knee gradually wears down over time, decreasing joint cushioning and increasing friction between bones. This natural aging process makes osteoarthritis more prevalent in individuals over 50.
Joint Injury and Repetitive Stress
Injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, or meniscus damage can contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis. These injuries may alter joint alignment, increasing stress on certain areas of the knee. Additionally, repetitive movements or heavy physical activity, often associated with certain sports or occupations, can accelerate cartilage wear.
Genetics and Hereditary Factors
Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in knee osteoarthritis. Your risk of developing the condition may be higher if you have a family history of osteoarthritis. Certain inherited traits, such as joint alignment abnormalities, can make your knees vulnerable to wear and tear.
Obesity and Its Contribution to Knee OA
Excess body weight is a significant risk factor for knee osteoarthritis. Every pound of extra weight stresses the knee joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown. Obesity is also associated with systemic inflammation, which can further damage joint tissues over time.
Risk Factors Contributing to Knee Osteoarthritis
In addition to direct causes, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing knee osteoarthritis:
Overuse and Occupation-Related Risks
Jobs or activities that involve repetitive knee bending, heavy lifting, or prolonged periods of standing can increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Overuse can lead to joint stress and cartilage degeneration over time.
Gender and Osteoarthritis in the Knee
Studies show that women are more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis than men, particularly after menopause. Hormonal changes may contribute to cartilage loss and joint inflammation, increasing the risk in women.
Lifestyle Factors: Diet and Physical Activity
A poor diet lacking nutrients essential for joint health, such as calcium and vitamin D, can contribute to weaker bones and cartilage. Conversely, a sedentary lifestyle may lead to weight gain and reduced joint mobility, compounding the risk of knee osteoarthritis.
Preventing Knee Osteoarthritis: What You Can Do
While some factors, such as age and genetics, are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a knee osteoarthritis diagnosis:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Reducing excess weight minimizes strain on your knees.
- Stay active: Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or walking to strengthen the muscles around your knees and improve joint flexibility.
- Protect your joints: Use proper techniques during physical activities and avoid repetitive knee stress.
- Eat a balanced diet: To support joint and bone health, incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D.
- Seek early treatment: Address injuries promptly and consult a specialist if you experience persistent knee pain or stiffness.
These proactive measures can help you maintain healthier knees and improve your overall quality of life.
Request an Appointment from Texas Knee Institute
If you’re concerned about knee osteoarthritis or experiencing symptoms such as pain, stiffness, or swelling, Texas Knee Institute offers advanced care options tailored to your needs.
One of our innovative treatments, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), provides a non-surgical alternative to knee replacement for patients seeking relief from osteoarthritis pain. This minimally invasive procedure targets inflammation in the knee joint, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility without the need for major surgery.
Request an appointmentRequest an appointmentRequest an appointment today to learn more about GAE and other personalized treatment options. Let us help you take the first step toward better joint health and a more active lifestyle.
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