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Why does osteoarthritis often affect the knees, hips, and spine?
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Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, frequently affects the knees, hips, and spine primarily because these are weight-bearing joints. The development of the condition is largely driven by faulty mechanical loading and the cumulative stress placed on these areas over time.12
The cartilage that cushions these joints is susceptible to deterioration due to several factors:
- Mechanical Stress: Repetitive microtraumaāsmall injuries resulting from activities like heavy lifting, certain sports, or occupational strainācan accelerate the breakdown of articular cartilage.32
- Weight-Bearing Load: Because the knees, hips, and spine support the body's weight, they are subject to constant pressure. When this loading is uneven or excessive, it leads to the abrasive wearing away of cartilage and the subsequent development of bone spurs (osteophytes).32
- Aging: As part of the natural aging process, cartilage loses its water-retaining capacity, making it more prone to damage and erosion.31
When cartilage erodes, it facilitates painful bone-on-bone contact, further restricting joint integrity and movement.3