Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common osteoarthritis types and can result in severe pain and disability. While many factors can cause knee osteoarthritis, certain occupations have been linked to a higher risk of developing this condition.

Below are ten occupational risks linked to knee osteoarthritis.

1. Construction Workers

Construction workers are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. Workers in the construction industry are required to lift heavy objects, climb stairs, and stand for long periods, leading to significant stress to their knee joints.

2. Mining Workers

Mining workers are exposed to heavy machinery that requires them to work in awkward positions, which places excessive pressure on their knees.

The constant standing and walking on hard surfaces like concrete also contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis.

3. Nurses

Nurses are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis due to the constant standing and walking involved in their job. Nurses are required to stand for long periods, often leading to knee pain and inflammation.

4. Farmers

Farmers are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis due to the constant bending, kneeling, and crouching involved in their daily work. Farmers are also required to carry heavy loads, leading to significant pressure on their knees.

5. Cleaning Professionals

Cleaning professionals are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis due to the constant kneeling and crouching involved in their work.

Many cleaning tasks, particularly those involving floors and toilets, require constant bending and kneeling, leading to knee pain and inflammation.

6. Athletes

Athletes who participate in sports that involve repeated jumping and pivoting movements are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. Examples of such sports include basketball and football.

7. Mechanics

Mechanics are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis due to the constant kneeling and crouching involved in their work. Mechanics are also required to work in awkward positions, leading to significant pressure on their knees.

8. Dock Workers

Dock workers are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis due to the heavy lifting and constant walking involved in their work. The hard floor surfaces also contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis.

9. Bakers

Bakers are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis due to the constant standing and lifting involved in their work. Bakers are also required to work in awkward positions, leading to significant pressure on their knees.

10. Office Workers

Office workers who sit for long periods are at a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis.

This is because sitting for long periods can lead to decreased muscle mass, weakening the knee muscles, and increasing the risk of injury and knee osteoarthritis.