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Age
While age is a significant risk factor for OA development, it is noteworthy that older age does not inevitably lead to this condition. Aging brings about changes in joint tissues that make us more susceptible to OA when other risk factors are present. One key player in this scenario is the aging process affecting cartilage cells, known as chondrocytes. These cells, responsible for maintaining the balance of the joint's matrix, start showing signs of aging, which ultimately sets the stage for joint cartilage degeneration, a hallmark of osteoarthritis.
Gender
OA tends to affect more women than men, and it often hits them harder, increasing the chances of disability. However, while scientists are digging into the "why," the exact reasons causing such a shift in prevalence towards the female population are not fully understood. Several studies propose potential explanations, such as decreased joint cartilage volume and thickness in women compared to men, a higher risk of falls among females, and increased levels of pro-inflammatory molecules and markers of inflammation in women.
Obesity
Aside from exerting excessive mechanical stress on weight-bearing joints (for example, knee joints), obesity, as one of the key OA risk factors, disrupts the balanced immune system environment inside a joint. This imbalance can lead to inflammation processes, causing OA symptoms like joint pain and reduced range of motion.
Muscle Weakness
Recent studies have uncovered a compelling connection between weaker limb muscles and osteoarthritis. However, the precise character of this relationship remains a subject of ongoing research. Scientists are yet to determine whether muscle weakness precedes the development of osteoarthritis or if osteoarthritis itself leads to muscle weakness.
Genetics
Some individuals carry genes that elevate their susceptibility to developing osteoarthritis. These genes influence various biological processes involved in joint formation, homeostasis, and maintenance, often affecting the expression of genes in synovial joint tissue.
Anatomical Factors
The architecture of the joint itself can significantly influence the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis. Let's take the hip joint as an example. Researchers have found that certain shapes, like having an improperly formed hip socket (acetabular dysplasia), developmental issues in the hip (developmental dysplasia), a wider femoral neck, or a pistol-grip deformity, can increase the chances of getting osteoarthritis.
History of Joint Injuries
If you have ever had a joint injury, you should know it could increase your chances of developing osteoarthritis. Injuries can throw off the neuromuscular control and biomechanics around the affected joint. This disruption can potentially contribute to the gradual deterioration of the protective joint cartilage, paving the way for the onset of OA. Therefore, taking care of your joints is not just about today—it is an investment in your future mobility.
Athletic Performance
Engaging in sports is a fantastic way to stay fit and healthy. Still, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks, especially concerning osteoarthritis. Higher frequency and increased stress on joints during intense physical activities, like running or contact sports, can accelerate wear and tear on the protective cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis. Furthermore, sport-related joint injuries, such as torn ligaments or meniscus tears, can disturb the normal biomechanics of joints, laying the groundwork for the eventual development of osteoarthritis.
