Osteoarthritis and Body Weight

If you’re overweight, you’re at greater risk of developing osteoarthritis – particularly of the knees. Why? Experts believe that extra stress on the weight-bearing joints damages cartilage. According to one study, the risk of knee osteoarthritis increases by 36 per cent with every five kilograms of weight gain, and even a ten per cent weight loss can significantly improve overall function. While losing weight is important, reducing your percentage of body fat and increasing your muscle strength can also help enhance mobility. If you have osteoporosis in the knees, you should strengthen your quadriceps (upper thigh muscles). The stronger they are, the more strain they can take off your knees.