Aging: As we age, the moisture and structure of the soft part called ‘Cartilage’ that protects the bones from rubbing against each other decreases. This causes the bones to rub against each other and wear and tear.
Obesity: Excess weight puts a lot of pressure on weight-bearing joints such as the knees, spine, and hips. This accelerates wear and tear.
Injury: Previous injuries to the joints (accidents, sports injuries) are more likely to cause wear and tear.
Genetics: If adults in your family have osteoarthritis, you are also more likely to get it.
Overuse: Jobs that use the same joints excessively (for example, sitting in the same position or doing heavy physical labor) increase wear and tear.
Nutritional deficiency: A lack of calcium and vitamin D, which are necessary for bone strength, weakens bone health.
Hormonal changes: In women, the decrease in estrogen hormone levels after menopause causes bone strength to decrease and accelerates bone loss.
