By Stephen D. Rycyna, MD, Board-Certified Orthopedist

Excess weight is one of the most preventable causes of arthritis. Research shows that being overweight contributes to about 25% of all diagnosed cases. People with obesity are up to 60% more likely to develop arthritis at an earlier age than those who maintain a healthy weight.

Arthritis occurs when joints become damaged or irritated over time, and excess pounds don’t just affect your joints—they also increase your risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and heart disease. Once arthritis develops, being overweight can make symptoms worse and raise the likelihood of disability.

Weight-bearing joints—especially the knees, hips, and lower back—absorb tremendous force with every step. When you walk, the pressure on your knees is about three times your body weight. That means someone weighing 200 pounds puts roughly 600 pounds of force on each knee with every step. Over time, this process accelerates the breakdown of protective cartilage, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Arthritis is a progressive disease with no cure, and joint deterioration tends to advance more rapidly in people who are overweight, resulting in the need for anti-inflammatory medications, Visco supplementation, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and ultimately joint replacement. However, maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pain and protect joints.

If you’re struggling with your weight, programs like The Ideal You Weight Loss Center offer personalized nutrition plans, coaching, and ongoing support to help you reach and maintain a healthy weight. Losing even a small amount of weight can alleviate joint pain, enhance mobility, and improve your overall quality of life.

Stephen D. Rycyna, MD, is a board-certified orthopedist and consultant for The Ideal You Weight Loss Center.