What Are the Causes of Osteo Arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is one of the oldest and most common forms of arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation estimates some 27 million Americans live with this form of degenerative bone disease, and unfortunately there is no one cause known. In fact, researchers believe a combination of factors may be the reason some people develop osteoarthritis and others don't.

Aging

• Considered primary osteoarthritis, aging increases wear and tear on the joints, causing osteoarthritis.

Injury

• Broken bones which do not heal properly can cause osteoarthritis by changing the angle at which joints meet, increasing the likelihood of wear and tear. This is considered secondary osteoarthritis, when something other than age plays a factor in its development.

Obesity

• Obesity increases wear and tear on the joints, causing damage leading to osteoarthritis.

Endocrine Disorder

• Diabetes or other endocrine disorders are believed to cause osteoarthritis by changing how the body develops during growth or repairs damage done by regular activity.

Muscle Weakness

• Muscle weakness has shown to have a direct effect on development of osteoarthritis by destabilizing the joints, especially in the knees, and modifying how the joints interact.

Genetics

• Evidence shows that genetic defects or abnormalities in bone development can be an underlying factor in the development of osteoarthritis. Such abnormalities may include poor cartilage formation, improper bone shape, or bones that do not come together smoothly.