With over 100 diseases associated with arthritis, there are many causes of arthritis. The most common cause is wear and tear of the joints. This can occur naturally as the body ages or it can occur earlier in life if the body is abused – for instance, over exercising or playing sports that put pressure on a certain joint for a long period of time. Repetitive actions can also cause arthritis, in the form of tendonitis – using a computer keyboard for extended periods each day can cause tendonitis. Some types of arthritis are caused by infections in other parts of the body and mineral deposits collecting on the joints can cause some types of arthritis.

Most Common Causes of Arthritis

• Genetic – Genetics play an important role in the causes of many illnesses. While genetic predisposition is not always understood, there are signs that point to the increased risk of arthritis when certain factors are present in the family medical history.

• Age – Many types of arthritis are caused by the normal wear and tear of cartilage. As a person ages, the cartilage becomes more brittle and is more likely to wear away, leaving the joints with no cushion. As a person ages, their risk for arthritis increases.

• Injury – Many times a previous injury can lead to the onset of arthritis. If the joint or surrounding tissue was damaged due to an injury, this can accelerate the process of wear and tear on the joint.

• Weight – Weight can play a very important role in the onset of arthritis. Extra weight increases the pressure on joints such as the hips, spine, knees, and ankles. This can result in an earlier onset of arthritis because the wear and tear of the supporting joints is accelerated.

• Sports – Some sports can lead to the onset of arthritis. Tennis is one of the most likely sports because of the pressure placed on the elbow – and the repetitive movement of the elbow. Tendonitis is one of the most common sports-related types of arthritis. Other sports, such as football and baseball can place more stress on the knees and if played for years can increase the chance of arthritis later in life.

• Occupational Hazards – There are many jobs that can contribute to the onset of arthritis. Assembly line jobs in which the worker repeats the same action over and over for extended periods of time can lead to tendonitis or other forms of arthritis in the fingers, hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Jobs such as construction and other jobs that require constant heavy lifting can contribute to arthritis in the ankles, knees, hips, spine, and neck.

• Infection – Some types of arthritis are caused by infections in other parts of the body. Both viral and bacterial infections can result in the onset of arthritis.

• Stress – Being under a lot of stress can cause the body’s hormonal balance to shift, which can result in the body’s immune system not being able to rid the body of foreign bacteria, which can result in the onset of arthritis.

• Food allergies – Certain foods can contribute to inflammation of the joints. People who notice that inflammation occurs after consuming these foods should avoid them whenever possible.

There are many factors that can contribute to the onset of arthritis. The best way to avoid the causes of arthritis is to lead a healthy lifestyle. A healthy diet and regular exercise are important for your overall health and can help to reduce your risk for arthritis. Other things that you can do to help reduce the risk are:

• Avoiding repetitive movements – If you job requires repetitive movements be sure to change activities often and take breaks often enough to prevent stress on the joint being used most often.

• Maintain an exercise routine that will keep your joints flexible and will build muscles to help take the pressure off of the joints.

• Avoid lifting objects that are too heavy – ask for help with objects that will put too much stress on your back, hips, and knees.

• Live a life of moderation and healthy choices.