World Arthritis Day: Why women are more at risk for arthritis
Arthritis, a condition characterized by joint inflammation and stiffness, affects millions worldwide. While it can touch anyone, women bear a disproportionate burden, with higher rates of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). Understanding the factors behind this difference helps women take proactive steps to protect joint health, preserve mobility, and maintain independence as they age.
1) Hormonal factors
Hormones, especially estrogen, play a pivotal role in maintaining bone and joint health. As women approach menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can foster greater inflammation and accelerate joint degeneration. This hormonal shift partly explains why postmenopausal women are more prone to arthritis and related symptoms. While hormone changes are natural, recognizing their impact on joints empowers women to monitor symptoms and seek early guidance from healthcare professionals.
2) Autoimmune predisposition
Women generally mount stronger immune responses, which helps combat infections but also increases the likelihood of autoimmune conditions. Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are more common in women because the immune system is more prone to mistakenly attacking joint tissues. Early recognition of joint pain, morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, and swelling can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, potentially slowing disease progression.
3) Joint structure and biomechanics
Anatomical differences influence arthritis risk. Women typically have wider hips and more flexible joints, which can alter body alignment and place additional stress on knees and hips. These structural factors, especially when combined with age-related weight gain or repetitive strain, contribute to a higher likelihood of osteoarthritis in the knee and other weight-bearing joints. Proper conditioning and posture awareness can help mitigate some of these biomechanical risks.
4) Pregnancy and childbirth
Pregnancy introduces hormonal and physical changes that can temporarily loosen ligaments and increase joint stress. Repeated pregnancies, excessive weight gain, or insufficient postnatal care may lead to longer-term joint instability and discomfort, particularly in the lower back, knees, and ankles. Women planning pregnancy or managing postnatal recovery should work with their healthcare team to support joint health through appropriate exercise and weight management.
5) Lifestyle and weight factors
Body weight and activity levels strongly influence arthritis risk. Hormonal cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can drive fluctuations in weight, and excess weight places additional load on weight-bearing joints. Beyond weight, sedentary behavior and inadequate muscle strengthening can weaken joints and reduce joint stability. Incorporating regular, joint-friendly activity helps protect cartilage and build supporting muscle around vulnerable joints.
How can women reduce arthritis risk?
Dr. Ashwani Maichand, Director of Orthopedics at CK Birla Hospital in New Delhi, underscores that lifestyle choices are powerful tools for reducing arthritis risk and managing joint health. Practical steps include:
- Maintain a healthy weight to ease pressure on joints, especially the knees and hips.
- Stay active with low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and yoga to maintain flexibility and muscle strength.
- Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, fruits, and nuts.
- Protect joints everyday by practicing good posture, using proper body mechanics, and avoiding repetitive strain where possible.
Early symptom awareness is key. If you notice persistent joint pain, swelling, or morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and tailored management plan. With proactive care, women can maintain joint health and preserve mobility well into later years.
