Between men and women, osteoarthritis disproportionately affects post-menopausal women. They are more pre-disposed to the condition because of biology, genetics and hormones. While metabolic changes, caused by a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle, trigger the genetic reprogramming of cells in the body and joints, the question arises — why women, and not men?
Dr. Chethana D, Consultant – Rheumatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore told indianexpress.com that women are more prone to osteoarthritis than men mainly because of hormonal changes, especially after menopause when estrogen levels drop, which affects joint health. Women also tend to have less muscle mass and more flexible joints, which can put extra pressure on the bones and cartilage.
Dr Debashish Chanda, Director, Department of Orthopedics, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram added that females also have wider hips, influencing knee alignment and putting more stress on weight-bearing joints. Also, having a lower amount of muscle mass than men gives less joint stability and support, and the higher probability of obesity, particularly following menopause, also plays a role in joint irritation and pressure. Genetic susceptibility playing a part in predisposing women to osteoarthritis is also a contributing factor.
How can you prevent the onset of osteoarthritis?
Dr Chanda shared that making healthy lifestyle modifications will delay or even prevent the development of osteoarthritis. Here are a few lifestyle tweaks to make:
- Keeping a healthy weight is essential, as losing even a small amount of weight will dramatically reduce the load on hips and knees.
- Exercise regularly, especially low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, yoga, or cycling, keeps joints supple and aids the muscle tension that maintains them in alignment.
More serious conditions where it interferes with activities of daily living may include replacement surgery of the joint.(Source: Freepik)
- A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D maintains bone and joint health, and limiting excessive processed food and sugar can even reverse inflammation.
- Joint protection by maintaining good posture, using proper ergonomic support, and avoiding repetitive strain also lowers the risk of premature degeneration.
Treatment
According to Dr Chanda, there is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are many treatments that can provide relief and prevent further loss.
“Self-care measures such as physiotherapy, stretching, and application of heat or cold packs relieve stiffness and pain. Medication such as NSAIDs, topical anti-inflammatory gel, or analgesics are the most frequently prescribed medications, whereas serious conditions include corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injection to aid mobilization,” he elaborated, adding that more serious conditions where it interferes with activities of daily living may include replacement surgery of the joint.
With a treatment combining preventive interventions, early medical care, and life changes, women can lower their risk noticeably and enhance the quality of life with osteoarthritis present.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
