The Joint Clinic in Gundelfingen, Germany, said that women are more susceptible to osteoarthritis, which is one of the most common bone diseases among the elderly.
The clinic explained that osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is an irreparable damage to the joint cartilage tissue, which works to reduce friction resulting from constant joint movement and acts as a cushion to protect the bones, noting that the erosion of this protective layer due to the disease leads to friction of the bone tissue, and the friction is accompanied by infections that affect the joint cavity and cause pain.
The average age of patients is 68 years. While only one in three men is affected, one in two women in this age group is affected.
The clinic added that the exact reason for this is not yet fully understood, but it is likely that the lack of estrogen after menopause plays an important role in this. When the production of this anti-inflammatory hormone decreases, the supply of connective tissues and cartilage with synovial fluid decreases, and blood flow to the muscles and joints decreases.
Osteoporosis, which affects many women after menopause, can also contribute to joint problems, as those affected often assume a protective position, which leads to posture problems that put pressure on the joints and may cause damage.
Knees and fingers are more vulnerable
While osteoarthritis affects the hips at a similar rate in men and women, the knee and finger joints are significantly more affected in women, as the number of women affected is twice as high as the number of men.
Possible causes include bone misalignments, such as knee buckling, which is more common in women, weak connective tissue and decreased cartilage elasticity. Genetic factors can also play a role.
Treatment
The German Joint Clinic indicated that osteoarthritis is incurable, but its development can be slowed and its symptoms significantly reduced.
In the early stages of damage, mechanical friction or impingement of the cartilage can often be eliminated with minimally invasive arthroscopy (arthroscopy).
To correct movement patterns and relieve stress on joints, the following procedures are often helpful, if applied early enough:
– Physical therapy
– Targeted muscle training
– Orthopedic aids (orthopedic devices)
In cases of advanced wear and tear, artificial joints, i.e. prostheses or partial limbs, are often the only option available.
Prevention measures
The following simple measures help prevent joint erosion:
Exercise is the best protection for joints, especially moderate sports that benefit joints, such as cycling.
– Heat treatments using alkaline baths or bandages relax the tissues and promote relaxation.