Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common types of arthritis. This relates to the natural “wear and tear” of our joints as we age. Obesity has significantly increased over the past decade, this has resulted in increased rates of “wear and tear” of joints thus OA developing.
People with a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) are more likely to require hip or knee replacement due to increased compressive forces and alignment issues causing increased pressure in the joints. Due to excessive body fat and low muscle mass, obese people have more complications and poorer outcomes post-surgery. It is optimal to decrease BMI to minimise complications both during and after surgery.
Obesity-related damages in OA is not only limited to joints. Obesity and OA are linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and depression. This risk of such metabolic disease/syndrome increases due to increase in high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess fat around the waist – which all are results of obesity!
Obesity is one of the most common and modifiable risk factors of osteoarthritis. Please seek advice from your GP or dietician if you require some strategies for weight management.