Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a degenerative disease that slowly wears away the cartilage in the knee joint, causing pain, stiffness and swelling. While there are many factors that can contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis and understanding the root cause can help you prevent and manage the condition more effectively. In this blog post we will explore the primary causes of knee osteoarthritis and discuss some useful strategies for preventing and managing the disease. Whether you are already struggling with knee osteoarthritis or looking to prevent it from occurring this article has something for you.
Age and Genetics
One of the main causes of knee osteoarthritis is aging. As we get older, the cartilage in our joints deteriorates gradually, leading to wear and tear. Aging can also make our joints less flexible and prone to stiffness, which makes them more susceptible to injury. Genetics also plays a significant role in the development of knee osteoarthritis. For example, if your parents or other family members have a history of the condition, you may be more likely to develop it yourself. Additionally, certain genes have been found to be associated with a higher risk of knee osteoarthritis.
Obesity
Another major contributing factor to knee osteoarthritis is being overweight or obese. Excess weight puts extra stress on the knee joint, leading to increased wear and tear over time. In fact, research has shown that for every pound of weight you gain, you put an extra four pounds of pressure on your knee joints. If you are struggling with weight issues, losing just a few extra pounds can help alleviate the stress on your knee joint and reduce your risk of developing knee osteoarthritis.
Previous Injuries or Trauma
Accidents and injuries that affect the knee joint can also contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. Did you know that people who have undergone knee surgery for an injury or have experienced previous knee injuries are more likely to develop osteoarthritis in the future? This is because the injury or surgery can cause additional wear and tear on the knee joint, leading to the breakdown of the cartilage. If you have any previous injuries, it is essential to take preventive measures such as engaging in appropriate physiotherapy and modifying your activities to reduce their impact on your knees.
Lifestyle Factors
Your lifestyle choices can also play a significant role in your risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. For example, athletes and people who engage in high-impact sports such as running or basketball are at a higher risk of developing the condition due to the constant pressure on their knee joints. Additionally, people who have jobs that require a lot of standing or walking can also be at risk of developing knee osteoarthritis if they are not careful about taking regular breaks and stretching their legs.
Now that you know the primary causes of knee osteoarthritis, you can take steps to protect your knees and reduce your risk of developing the condition. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, avoiding high-impact activities, and taking preventive measures for previous injuries or traumas can help you keep your knees healthy and pain-free for years to come. If you are already affected by knee osteoarthritis, it is never too late to take control of your health. Consult with a physiotherapist or chiropractor, who can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that incorporates exercise, stretching, weight management, and other essential strategies to manage the condition. With the right care, you can continue to live an active, healthy lifestyle, free from the pain of knee osteoarthritis.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
