Arthritis can happen at any age

“I work out with a friend who’s in her late 30s. One day after our class, she said: ‘My knee hurts. I must’ve pushed too hard. It’s been swelling, too,’” says rheumatologist

Dr Natalie Azar.

“I did a quick exam and asked her if it also hurt when she was at rest and particularly when she was going up stairs. She replied: ‘As a matter of fact, yes.’ When I told her I thought she had arthritis, she was quite surprised – most women in their 30s and 40s think they’re just too young. But the truth is, even a 20-something can have arthritis if she has sufficient risk factors. Family history plays a key role: If your parents have arthritis, there’s a good chance you’ll get it as well, at any point in your life. So see your doctor and work with them to figure out the best way to protect your joints through exercise.”