Causes of Arthritis

The cause of arthritis depends on the type, but common factors include:

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Often called “wear and tear” arthritis, OA occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. It commonly affects joints in the knees, hips, spine, and hands.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to painful inflammation, joint deformity, and potential joint damage.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Occurs in some individuals with psoriasis, where the immune system attacks both skin and joint tissue, causing joint pain and swelling.

Gout

Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain and inflammation, often affecting the big toe joint.

Risk Factors for Arthritis

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing arthritis:

  • Age – The risk of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, increases with age.
  • Gender – Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more commonly affected by gout.
  • Genetics – A family history of arthritis can increase risk, particularly for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
  • Obesity – Excess weight puts added pressure on joints, especially weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, and spine, accelerating cartilage breakdown.
  • Injury or Overuse – Previous joint injuries or repetitive use can increase the risk of osteoarthritis in specific joints.
  • Autoimmune Factors – Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are more common in people with autoimmune disorders.
 

Causes of Arthritis

The cause of arthritis depends on the type, but common factors include:

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Often called “wear and tear” arthritis, OA occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. It commonly affects joints in the knees, hips, spine, and hands.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to painful inflammation, joint deformity, and potential joint damage.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Occurs in some individuals with psoriasis, where the immune system attacks both skin and joint tissue, causing joint pain and swelling.

Gout

Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain and inflammation, often affecting the big toe joint.

Risk Factors for Arthritis

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing arthritis:

  • Age – The risk of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, increases with age.
  • Gender – Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more commonly affected by gout.
  • Genetics – A family history of arthritis can increase risk, particularly for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
  • Obesity – Excess weight puts added pressure on joints, especially weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, and spine, accelerating cartilage breakdown.
  • Injury or Overuse – Previous joint injuries or repetitive use can increase the risk of osteoarthritis in specific joints.
  • Autoimmune Factors – Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are more common in people with autoimmune disorders.
 

Contact Us

Contact Us

Scroll to Top