Bone and joint health fact sheet

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder. OA occurs when the cartilage between two joints wears down so the bones rub together, resulting in swelling and stiffness. Symptoms sually appear in middle age, and almost everyone has some symptoms by the age of 70.

Symptoms

• Joint pain and swelling
• Joint stiffness (especially in the morning).

Causes

• Family history
• Being overweight
• Fractures or other joint injuries
• Overuse
• Playing sports that involve direct impact on the joint
• Certain medical conditions can also affect joint health

Prevention

• Don’t overuse a painful joint at work or during activities
• Maintain a normal body weight
• Strengthen muscles around weight-bearing joints

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term, autoimmune disease that leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. RA can occur at any age, but is more common in middle age.

Symptoms

• Morning stiffness that lasts more than one hour
• Pain affecting the same joint on both sides of the body
• Joints that feel warm, tender, and stiff when they haven’t been used for an hour

Cause

The cause of RA is unknown. Infection, genes, and hormone changes may be linked to the disease.

Prevention

There is no known prevention. Smoking cigarettes appears to worsen RA, so it is important to avoid tobacco. Early treatment can help prevent further joint damage.

Bursitis

Bursitis is the swelling and irritation of a bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between muscles, tendons, and joints.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness when you press around the joint
• Stiffness and aching when you move the affected joint Q Swelling, warmth, or redness over the joint

Cause

• Overuse or change in activity level
• Trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or infection
• Sometimes the cause cannot be found

Prevention

• Avoid activities that include repetitive movements

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease. It is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to fracture.

Symptoms

• Loss of height (as much as 6 inches) over time
• A stooped posture may develop

Causes

• Family history
• Drop in estrogen at the time of menopause
• Absence of periods for a long amount of time
• Drinking large amounts of alcohol
• Low body weight
• Smoking
• Certain medications and medical conditions.

Prevention

• Eat a balanced diet
• Do not drink large amounts of alcohol
• Do not smoke
• Get regular exercise