What causes osteoarthritis?

Teaser image osteoarthritis animation

The knee joint is most often affected

Osteoarthritis of the knee is caused by the wear and tear of the cartilage in the knee, usually over time. However, injuries can also trigger knee osteoarthritis.

Don't take your weight lightly

At times, your knees bear six times your body weight. This is equivalent to walking around with a polar bear on your shoulders! The strain on your knees is considerably greater when your body mass index is too high.

Not just a question of age

Knee osteoarthritis affects women more than men. While men are diagnosed at a younger age, after age 45, women account for 60% of those affected by knee osteoarthritis.

Affected people by state

California, Texas, and Florida have the most people affected by arthritis, while West Virginia, Alabama, and Kentucky have the highest rates of arthritis.

Find out what the typical symptoms of knee osteoarthritis are.