We know that losing weight can improve quality of life, overall health, and several major health conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes. Osteoarthritis is another condition that can be greatly improved through weight loss. 

When you have arthritis, it can be tricky to lose weight and keep it off. The condition can make it very difficult to exercise, and this can make losing weight hard. Weight loss surgery, such as gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, can be great options for those who are in this situation. 

What is Osteoarthritis & How Is It Related to Obesity?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. Osteoarthritis can damage any joint, but the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Common symptoms of arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness that impairs mobility and affects the quality of life for many people. Most people who have arthritis manage the condition primarily with medications, most commonly with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While these can help reduce inflammation in the short-term, long-term use is associated with gastritis, peptic ulcers, and kidney disease. Moderate to severe cases of arthritis can be managed with surgery such as a joint replacement.

The exact correlation between obesity and osteoarthritis is still unclear, but we know that being overweight increases the load on major joints like knees and hips. This increases the rate of normal wear and tear of cartilages at joints. Obesity alone can cause three to six times one’s body weight to press down on the knees while walking.  

Research suggests that as body mass index (BMI) increases, the chance of developing osteoarthritis also increases. Weight loss is among the initial non-pharmacological recommendations for arthritic conditions, especially knee osteoarthritis.

Clearly, losing weight can improve osteoarthritis, with or without weight loss surgery. Surgery can be the jumpstart many people need to lose a significant amount of weight initially, then they are able to be much more active which helps the weight stay off for good. If you have osteoarthritis and are looking for options to help you with weight loss, make an appointment with us today!

Learn more about weight loss options at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery

The caring group of professionals at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery will help you get started on your weight loss journey and stay with you every step along the way. Dr. Long and his team specialize in all types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and the LAP-BAND. Visit us today at http://www.bmisurgery.com/ or give us a call to set up a consultation at 205-833-6907.