What is the Cause of Arthritis?

 Knowing what causes arthritis can help you act fast and avoid activities that can trigger joint damage. That said, not every factor (age or genetics) is in your control. The common causes include aging, autoimmune conditions, gout, infections, and a previous injury.

Arthritis, often associated with severe pain and inflammation in the joints, isn’t a single disease, but a broad term used to define many conditions that affect your joints. Pain, stiffness, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty moving are the common signs. People at an increased risk of arthritis or those who already have it often ask, what is the main cause of arthritis. 

Of course, prevention is the key, but not every risk factor can be controlled. Besides, arthritis doesn’t have a single cause. It varies based on the type. Find the best orthopedic surgeon in Mumbai to learn more about arthritis and the most suitable treatment options.

Wear and Tear of the Cartilage

Cartilage, a smooth and flexible tissue, acts like a cushion that ensures friction-free movement of your joints. However, with time and repetitive use, the cartilage can wear down. Without the protective layer, your joints start to rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness. 

While many people of advanced age experience the gradual wear of cartilage, it’s not uncommon in younger people. Those who use their joints excessively or indulge in sports or heavy exercises that put pressure on the joint can also get arthritis, irrespective of their age.

Immune Response

An overactive immune system might confuse your joints with a foreign object. The immune system, which is normally responsible for protecting you from infections, can destroy the lining of your joints over time. It is called rheumatoid arthritis. Remember, rheumatoid arthritis has nothing to do with age. It can affect people of all ages and different activity levels. 

Gout

Tiny crystals can develop in the joints, causing intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Your body produces uric acid, a waste material that exits your body through urine. When its level rises, and it doesn’t dissolve in the blood easily, it can turn into crystal-like substances, which further settle in your joints, causing all arthritis symptoms. The symptoms peak within 12-24 hours, and usually appear in the big toe initially, but can affect any joint. 

Infections

Also called septic arthritis, joint damage can also occur due to an infection. When germs (bacteria, viruses, or fungi) travel through your bloodstream to the joint, they can trigger an immediate reaction, causing inflammation. 

This can also occur when an injury or trauma to your skin leads to the germs entering the joint, damaging the cartilage and bones. Septic arthritis is considered an emergency and often requires immediate arthritis treatment in Mumbai to prevent long-term joint damage.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Have you ever suffered an injury in your knee, hip, or other joints and forgotten about it? Well, arthritis and trauma can be connected. Injuries to your joints, such as severe sprains, ligament tears, or fractures, might heal, but they can cause a lasting impact on your joint structure. It can weaken the cartilage, making it wear faster. Symptoms do not always appear immediately.

Talking to an orthopedic doctor can help you understand it better and ensure a comfortable life.