Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the older population. It is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to bone-on-bone rubbing and causing pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility.

While this condition is primarily associated with joint health, recent studies have revealed a direct link between hip/knee osteoarthritis and cardiovascular risk, including heart disease. Here’s what you need to know about this emerging relationship and how to manage your joint and heart health.

What is Hip/Knee Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body but is most common in the hip and knee joints. It occurs when the cartilage, which cushions the joint, begins to wear away, causing the bones to rub against each other.

As the condition progresses, bones start to develop spurs, causing further damage to the joint. This leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, which can significantly impact daily life.

The Connection Between Hip/Knee Osteoarthritis and Cardiovascular Risk

A growing body of research has revealed an interesting connection between arthritis and heart disease. According to some studies, people with arthritis have a higher risk of developing heart disease than those without the condition.

In particular, hip and knee osteoarthritis have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.

While the reason for this connection is not entirely clear, some experts believe that the inflammation caused by osteoarthritis may also affect other areas of the body, including blood vessels and the heart.

This inflammation may also contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to an increased risk of heart disease.

How to Manage Joint and Heart Health

If you have osteoarthritis or are at risk of developing the condition, taking steps to improve both joint and heart health is essential. Here are some tips to help manage your joint and heart health:.

: 1. Maintain a healthy weight

Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on your joints, which can worsen arthritis symptoms. It can also increase your risk of developing heart disease. Aim for a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

: 2. Stay active

Regular exercise can help keep your joints flexible and reduce arthritis pain. It is also beneficial for heart health, helping to maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

: 3. Eat a heart-healthy diet

Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help protect your heart and reduce inflammation throughout your body. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fats.

: 4. Get regular check-ups

If you have arthritis or are at risk of heart disease, regular check-ups with your doctor are essential. This will help you manage both conditions effectively and catch any potential problems early.

: 5. Take medications as prescribed

If you have arthritis, taking your medications as prescribed is critical to managing your symptoms. This can also help reduce inflammation in your body, which may lower your risk of heart disease.

If you have any concerns about your medications, talk to your doctor.

Conclusion

While the connection between hip/knee osteoarthritis and cardiovascular risk is still being studied, it is clear that taking steps to manage both joint and heart health is essential.

By maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating a heart-healthy diet, getting regular check-ups, and taking medications as prescribed, you can reduce your risk of both arthritis-related complications and heart disease.