The cause of bone degeneration is often multifactorial, but key contributors include chronic joint stress, genetics, previous injuries, and weight.
Bone degeneration, often manifested as osteoarthritis or other bone-related conditions, stems from a complex interplay of factors. Here's a breakdown of the primary causes:
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Chronic Joint Stress: Repetitive or high-impact activities, common in sports and certain occupations, can wear down cartilage, the protective tissue cushioning bones in joints. This leads to bone-on-bone friction, triggering degeneration.
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Family History: Genetics play a significant role. If you have a family history of osteoarthritis or other degenerative bone diseases, you are at a higher risk.
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Previous Joint Injuries: Past injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can destabilize joints and accelerate the degenerative process over time. Even seemingly minor injuries can contribute to long-term bone health issues.
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Obesity or Being Overweight: Excess weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. This increased load accelerates cartilage breakdown and bone degeneration.
Therefore, bone degeneration isn't usually caused by a single factor, but rather by a combination of genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, and past injuries, leading to a gradual deterioration of bone and joint health.