The degenerative disease of joints, osteoarthritis, can cause pain and inflammation of joints. It may affect the joints of feet, hands, spine and the weight-bearing joints like knees and hips. This disorder is mainly caused by the degeneration of cartilage present in the joint. In most cases, the exact causes of osteoarthritis are not clear. Such condition is known as primary osteoarthritis. In secondary osteoarthritis, the causes are known.

Primary osteoarthritis is mainly related to aging. Water content of cartilage increases and protein base degenerates with aging. Repetitive use of joints can cause irritation and inflammation of cartilage which may cause pain and swelling in joints. In advanced cases of osteoarthritis, there may be total loss of cartilage which may result in friction between the bones, joint pain and limitations in the mobility of joints. As osteoarthritis is a hereditary disease, the genetic factor is important in the development of this disease.

The secondary osteoarthritis may be because of some other conditions or diseases. The main causes of osteoarthritis are obesity, congenital abnormalities of joints, repeated joint injuries or surgery, diabetes, gout and some other hormone disease. Obesity can cause excessive mechanical stress on the cartilage which may result in breakdown and loss of cartilage resulting in inflammation and pain in the joints.

Repeated trauma to the joint structures such as cartilage, bones and ligaments can cause early development of osteoarthritis. In addition to this, gout is among the important causes of osteoarthritis. Due to deposition of uric acid crystals in the cartilage in gout, there may be irritation and inflammation of cartilage. Besides these, some congenital abnormalities can cause development of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis of hips is usually associated with design abnormalities of these joints. Besides this, the disorders related to hormonal imbalance such as growth hormone and diabetes can also cause early degeneration of cartilage giving rise to secondary osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis can be prevented with the help of exercise, dietary supplements and few changes in lifestyle. As obesity is one of the significant causes of osteoarthritis, maintaining a healthy body weight is very essential. Regular exercise and balanced diet are helpful to control the weight for osteoarthritis prevention. Exercise is very important for joints and muscles to prevent weakness and stiffness. It can improve the flexibility and mobility of joints, prevent further damage of joints and maintain overall health.

The diet plays an important role in osteoarthritis prevention as well as fast recovery of osteoarthritis. Your diet should be rich in vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, anti-oxidant vitamin C and E, and the essential fatty acids, especially omega-3. Your diet should include plenty of foods which are low in fat and high in fibers, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes including lentils, dried beans and peas.

In addition to that, few changes in lifestyle can also help to prevent this disorder. Avoid doing activities that can put stress on your joints. Save your joints from any kind of injury and take help of assistive devices. Have a rest when you feel tired.