How Does Arthritis Affect Women?

Women think, act, and feel differently compared to men, and their bodies respond uniquely to health conditions. Arthritis is one such condition where women are at a higher risk due to physiological and hormonal factors. Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis disproportionately affect women. If you’re experiencing joint-related issues, consult the best orthopedic surgeon in Guntur, Dr. Giridhar Boyapati, for expert arthritis treatment.

Osteoarthritis and Its Impact on Women

1. Women Develop Arthritis Later but Experience More Pain

While men may develop arthritis before age 55, women tend to catch up quickly and often experience more severe pain. Studies show that women with arthritis consistently report higher pain levels than men.

2. Arthritis Affects Different Joints in Women

1. Men are more prone to hip arthritis.
2. Women commonly experience arthritis in the hands and knees due to:
   • Increased ligament flexibility (to accommodate childbirth).
   • Wider hips, which alter knee alignment and make them prone to injuries.

3. The Role of Hormones

Estrogen helps reduce inflammation, which is why younger women have lower arthritis rates than men. However, after menopause, when estrogen levels drop, the risk of developing arthritis increases significantly.

4. Obesity and Arthritis

Women have higher obesity rates, which increases arthritis risk. Excess weight puts additional pressure on knee joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown. Every extra pound of body weight adds three pounds of pressure on knee joints.

5. Genetic Predisposition

A family history of arthritis increases the risk, particularly in women. If a woman’s mother had arthritis, she is more likely to develop it at the same age and in similar joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Women

RA is different from osteoarthritis as it is an autoimmune disease rather than wear and tear of the joints. Women are three times more likely to develop RA than men.

Why Do More Women Get RA?

• Stronger Immune System – Women have a more responsive immune system, making them prone to autoimmune diseases like RA.
• Hormonal Influence – RA risk and symptoms fluctuate due to hormones:
  • Many women experience reduced RA symptoms during pregnancy, only to have them return after childbirth.
  • Breastfeeding lowers the risk of developing RA, especially if done for an extended period.

Get Expert Arthritis Treatment in Guntur

If you're struggling with arthritis, seek expert care from the best ortho surgeon in Guntur, Dr. Giridhar Boyapati. He specializes in cutting-edge arthritis treatments at one of the best hospitals for joint problems in Guntur.

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