What Causes Arthritis?
By admin | October 15, 2008
It can often be difficult to determine what causes arthritis. This common problem can occur in an individual due to a variety of reasons. Risk factors that can cause arthritis can be due to some of the following:
Age
As we age, our cartilage becomes more brittle and is less able to repair itself. Therefore, as we age it is more likely that we will develop arthritis.
Previous Injuries
Damage to our joints can cause the normally smooth surface to become rough and irregular. Because of previous serious injuries this can be a cause of arthritis.
Genetics
It is not completely understood exactly how much genetics or heredity actually contribute to the cause of arthritis. However, it is believed that genetic variations can be related to the causes of arthritis.
Weight
Excess body weight can lead to the cause of arthritis. Joint damage can occur depending on the amount of weight that the joint has been subjected to. Heavier patients can cause wear quickly, especially to the hips and knees.
High Activity Sports
While participating in sports can be a contributing factor in joint injuries and subsequent arthritis, it is very difficult to determine how much it actually contributes to the cause of arthritis. However, the benefits that are derived from sports and physical activities likely outweigh the risks of arthritis.
Occupational Hazzards
Certain occupations seem to have workers that have a higher risk of developing arthritis than others. Typically, these are very physically demanding jobs, such as heavy construction, assembly line workers and heavy repetitive jobs.
Illness
Joint infections(septic joint),episodes of gout, or other medical conditions experienced by some people also
causes arthritis in the joints.
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