28 Apr 2023 BY Katrina Tarrant POSTED IN Exercise, Physiotherapy, Pilates, Sydney CBD Tweet Osteoarthritis : a normal process of aging Osteoarthritis is commonly considered a normal part of the aging process due to several reasons. Why? And why are some of us more prone to this process? Firstly, the prevalence of osteoarthritis increases with age. As we grow older, the wear and tear on our joints accumulate over time, leading to the degeneration of the cartilage that cushions the joints. This gradual breakdown is a natural consequence of the stresses and strains our bodies experience throughout a lifetime of movement. Put simply, the thinning and wearing of the cartilage is a sign of a well used joint, and not much else. (Like my big toe joint from flexing to it get to the ground to correct my Pilates students!) Secondly, the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in osteoarthritis development align with the aging process. The ability of cartilage to repair itself diminishes with age, as the production of new cartilage cells slows down, and the existing cells become less efficient at maintaining the structural integrity of the joint. Other factors such as genetics, obesity, joint injuries, and certain occupations can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. These factors tend to accumulate over time, making the likelihood of osteoarthritis higher as individuals age. If osteoarthritis is a normal part of aging, why are we all affected differently? While osteoarthritis is considered a normal part of aging, it does not mean that everyone will experience it or that its impact cannot be managed. It comes down to our lifestyles and our genes. Lifestyle modifications, exercise, weight management, and appropriate medical interventions can help alleviate symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Tweet
Osteoarthritis is commonly considered a normal part of the aging process due to several reasons. Why? And why are some of us more prone to this process? Firstly, the prevalence of osteoarthritis increases with age. As we grow older, the wear and tear on our joints accumulate over time, leading to the degeneration of the cartilage that cushions the joints. This gradual breakdown is a natural consequence of the stresses and strains our bodies experience throughout a lifetime of movement. Put simply, the thinning and wearing of the cartilage is a sign of a well used joint, and not much else. (Like my big toe joint from flexing to it get to the ground to correct my Pilates students!) Secondly, the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in osteoarthritis development align with the aging process. The ability of cartilage to repair itself diminishes with age, as the production of new cartilage cells slows down, and the existing cells become less efficient at maintaining the structural integrity of the joint. Other factors such as genetics, obesity, joint injuries, and certain occupations can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. These factors tend to accumulate over time, making the likelihood of osteoarthritis higher as individuals age. If osteoarthritis is a normal part of aging, why are we all affected differently? While osteoarthritis is considered a normal part of aging, it does not mean that everyone will experience it or that its impact cannot be managed. It comes down to our lifestyles and our genes. Lifestyle modifications, exercise, weight management, and appropriate medical interventions can help alleviate symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.
