9 Major Causes of Arthritis

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Joint inflammation or arthritis is one of the most common musculoskeletal diseases that affects millions of people worldwide, especially those over the age of 50.

This disease causes joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited movement, and can significantly affect the quality of life of the sufferers. So, what are the main causes of joint inflammation?

Quoted from Mayoclinic and Cleveland Clinic, here is a complete explanation of the main causes of joint inflammation based on its types:

1. Aging and Joint Wear (Osteoarthritis)

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint inflammation. This condition occurs due to slow damage to cartilage, the smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones in the joint. As age increases, continuous joint use causes the cartilage to thin and the bones to rub against each other. This causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Several factors can trigger joint problems, including advanced age, which causes a natural decrease in joint function and elasticity. In addition, a history of previous joint injuries also plays a major role because it can leave permanent damage.

Obesity is another triggering factor because excess weight puts extra pressure on the joints, especially the knees and hips. Excessive physical activity on certain joints, such as intense exercise without sufficient rest, can also accelerate joint wear and trigger inflammation.

2. Autoimmune Disorders (Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease, in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining tissue (synovium). This causes chronic inflammation, swelling, and gradually destroys the cartilage and the joints themselves.

Other factors that can trigger joint disorders include genetic or family history. Joint disorders also occur more frequently in women. In addition, environmental factors such as smoking and exposure to viral infections also increase the risk of joint inflammation.

3. Uric Acid Buildup (Gout)

High levels of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia) can cause uric acid crystals to form and deposit in the joints, especially in the big toe. Gout causes sudden, severe pain attacks and swelling.

4. Viral and Bacterial Infections

Some types of arthritis can be triggered by viral infections such as COVID-19, hepatitis, or other infections. This type is called reactive arthritis or viral arthritis, which causes temporary joint inflammation.

5. Other Systemic Diseases

Some autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, lupus, or ankylosing spondylitis can also trigger joint inflammation as part of systemic complications.

6. Genetic and Hereditary Factors

If your parents or siblings have a history of arthritis, your risk of experiencing a similar condition will increase, especially for rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

7. Previous Joint Injuries

A history of serious or frequent joint injuries, for example, due to sports or heavy work, can trigger arthritis later in life. This is known as post-traumatic arthritis.

8. Overweight (Obesity)

Obesity puts additional pressure on the joints, especially in the knees, hips, and spine. In addition, excess fat tissue can also produce inflammatory compounds that worsen inflammation.

9. Lack of Physical Activity

People who rarely move or are physically inactive tend to experience decreased flexibility and muscle strength, which can accelerate joint damage and increase the risk of arthritis.

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