Osteoarthritis of the Knee Learning Center

OA of the Knee Risk Factors

Although aging itself is a risk factor for OA and decreases the ability of cartilage to heal itself, it's not the sole cause. Other factors include:

• Genetics and gender—In a study of female twins, heredity contributed to 39 to 65% of the hand and knee OA that developed. And OA of the knee is twice as common in women as in men.
• Obesity—Excessive weight can stress cartilage and alter body mechanics.
• Injuries—Prior injuries to knee cartilage or ligaments or a fracture of the joint can lead to knee OA years later.
• Repetitive overuse of the joint—For example, kneeling or squatting repeatedly over time can damage the knee.
• Other causes—Muscle weakness, poor bone alignment, poor aerobic fitness and the impact of nutritional imbalances are all being investigated.