Causes of OA

Causes of Primary Osteoarthritis

• Aging: With aging, the water content of the cartilage increases, and the protein make-up of cartilage degenerates
• Repetitive use of the worn joints over the years can irritate and inflame the cartilage, causing joint pain and swelling
• Inflammation of the cartilage which stimulates new bone outgrowths (spurs, also referred to as osteophytes) to form around the joints
• Hereditary (genetic) basis

Causes of Secondary Osteoarthritis

• It is caused by another disease or condition. They include obesity, repeated trauma, surgeries of the joints, abnormal joints at birth, gout, diabetes and other hormonal disorders.

• It is observed that obesity (risk factor of OA next only to aging) causes osteoarthritis by increasing the mechanical stress on the cartilage.
• It is also observed that crystal deposits in the cartilage can cause cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis.
• Some are born with abnormally formed joints (congenital abnormalities) that are vulnerable to mechanical wear, causing early degeneration and loss of joint cartilage.
• Hormonal disorders, such as diabetes and growth hormone disorders, are also associated with early cartilage wear and secondary osteoarthritis.

To Be Continued…