Chronic Disease Alliance of Kansas > Public/Patient Information

Risk Factors

Certain factors have been shown to be associated with a greater risk of arthritis.

Age: The risk of developing most types of arthritis increases with age.
Gender: Most types of arthritis are more common in women. Gout is more common in men.
Overweight and Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to knee osteoarthritis.
Joint injuries: Damage to a joint can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis in that joint.
Infection: Infection in the joints can cause various forms of arthritis.
Job: Certain jobs involving repetitive knee bending and squatting are associated with knee osteoarthritis.

Resources

Arthritis Facts

Arthritis is a term used for more than 100 medical conditions that affect the joins, surrounding tissues and other connective tissues. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Common arthritis symptoms include pain, aching, stiffness and swelling in and around the joint. Some forms of arthritis can affect multiple organs and cause widespread symptoms. Arthritis is the nation’s most common cause of disability.

Physical activity is important for everyone including people with arthritis. One of the best physical activities is walking, which is free and can be done year-round. Walking has been shown to ease arthritis symptoms, help improve physical function, speed, strength, balance and quality-of-life

Select Your Language