Aging: As we age, cartilage naturally weakens and wears away. This is most common in people over the age of 50.
Obesity: Being overweight puts the entire weight of the body on joints such as the knees and hips. This causes the cartilage to wear out faster.
Genetics: If parents or relatives have a history of osteoarthritis in the family, they are more likely to develop this problem.
Injuries: Previous major injuries (such as a broken bone or ligament injury to the knee or other area) can lead to osteoarthritis over time.
Excessive physical stress: Strenuous sports, working on the floor for long periods of time, and lifting heavy weights can put pressure on the joints and cause osteoarthritis.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men, especially after menopause. Hormonal changes are a major cause.
Muscle weakness: If the muscles that support the joints are not strong, all the weight falls on the bones, which causes osteoarthritis.
