We all know the feeling. Creaky knees. A sore shoulder. Pain in your hips. It comes after sitting too long, or walking for a while, or from doing just about anything, really. Usually, we’ll just chalk that kind of pain up to a particularly intense game, long run, or some other physical activity. Maybe even just getting old. Certainly, those things can contribute to how we’re feeling, but it may be something more specific:
Osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in your joints wears away1 due to the wear and tear on your joints from physical activity. This wear and tear can eventually lead to pain, swelling, tenderness, loss of flexibility, and even bone spurs.2 Typically, these symptoms develop slowly and over time, depending on your level of physical activity.2 High-impact exercises like running and jumping can take a toll, whether you’re a young adult, athlete or “weekend warrior.” Osteoarthritis can happen to anyone.
