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OA or osteoarthritis is also called degenerative disease of the joints affect the joints of over 27 million Americans This chronic condition of the joints is found to commonly affects the joints in the knees but can affect any joint in the body like the lower back and neck, small joints of the fingers and the bases of the thumb and big toe.
The joints are covered by cartilage a firm rubbery material which provides a cushion between the bones and allows for a smooth surface to facilitate easy joint movement.
Cause
Genes:
It has been found that can be genetic, persons born with certain traits can make them more likely to develop OA. One such possibility is a rare defect in the body’s ability to produce collagen, the protein that makes up cartilage. Without sufficient collagen can cause osteoarthritis to occur as early as age 20.
How the bones fit together so that cartilage wears away faster than usual is another inherited defect that can cause the early onset of OA.
The gene called FAAH, previously linked to increased pain sensitivity, is found to be higher in people with knee OA than in people who don’t have the disease.
Weight:
Being overweight is also another cause of OA the extra weight puts additional pressure on hips and knees. And carrying around extra pounds for a long time can cause the cartilage that cushions joints to break down faster.
Research has shown there is a definite link between being overweight and having an increased risk of osteoarthritis
Continue reading “Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis–Maintaining good health”
