What Causes Arthritis?

If you are one of the estimated 70 million American sufferers, you have probably asked your doctor this very question. While it would be great if the doctor could give you a definitive answer, several factors can contribute to a person getting arthritis, so it tends to be difficult to determine what causes arthritis.

Risk factors
While there are many, some of the most common are:

• Genetics
While it is believed that genetics contribute, no one is certain how much. It is highly likely that genetic variations can contribute to the cause.

• Age
Cartilage becomes more brittle as we age, lowering its capacity to repair itself. As women grow older, they often suffer from low bone density, or osteoporosis, a form of arthritis.

• Weight
Arthritis results from pain and swelling of our joints. If we are overweight, our joints have more weight to support, and the extra support needed can cause that pain and inflammation. Consequently, obesity can lead to the development of arthritis.

• Previous injury or infection
Healthy joints have a normal, smooth surface. Injuries in which a joint is damaged can cause irregularities in this smooth surface, which can lead to arthritis. Infections of the joints can also be a cause.

• Some high-level sports
No one knows how much participating in high-level sports contributes to the development of arthritis. However, if injuries lead to arthritis, then any injuries occurring as a result of sports participation could lead to arthritis. Don’t let this discourage you from participating in your favorite sports. Most doctors believe that the benefits of sports participation far outweigh the risk of arthritis.

• Illness or infection
Certain illnesses, such as gout, can often lead to the development of arthritis. Any type of joint infection can also contribute.

• Gender
After women go through menopause, their bone density level often drops, leading to osteoporosis, a form of the disease. However, osteoporosis can be slowed or stopped by taking supplements and medication that will help stabilize bone loss.

• Occupational hazards
Certain occupations can contribute to the development of arthritis. Jobs that use repetitive motion for long periods of time, such as assembly line work, can put extreme stress on certain joints, causing inflammation and swelling. Jobs that require the lifting of heavy weights can also contribute.

• Stress
While it is well known that stress can lead to a multitude of health problems, very few people are aware that it can lead to arthritis. Too much stress in our lives upsets our body’s hormonal balance, which then upsets the body’s immune system. The weakened immune system can allow bacteria into our bodies, which can lead to the development of arthritis.

The causes of arthritis are many, and doctors have no way of pinpointing which of those have caused the development of your pain and suffering. However, there are things that we can do to help decrease our chances of getting arthritis. These include:

1. Avoid all types of repetitive movements. If you cannot avoid them, take frequent breaks in activity.
2. Maintain a regular exercise routine. This will keep your joints flexible and your muscles strong.
3. Avoid any constant lifting of heavy objects.
4. Live a lifestyle that supports moderation and balance.