Osteoarthritis in Young People — Why It Occurs and What You Can Do

"I'm Too Young for Osteoarthritis"

Osteoarthritis is often seen as a disease of the elderly, but in my office, I see more and more patients in their 30s and 40s with significant osteoarthritis.

Causes of Osteoarthritis in Young People

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis—the most common cause. Fractures, meniscus tears, or untreated ACL injuries can accelerate wear and tear by 10-20 years.

Obesity—chronic stress on weight-bearing joints.

Congenital dysplasia—joint abnormalities present from birth.

Inflammatory diseases—juvenile arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout.

Sports-related overuse.

Osteochondritis dissecans—in adolescents and young adults.

How Does It Manifest?

• Pain during sports that no longer improves as it used to
• Recurrent swelling
• Stiffness
• Painful crepitus (crackling sounds)
• Reduced athletic performance

What Can You Do?

Prevention: Properly treat injuries, maintain a healthy weight, train smart, and don't ignore persistent pain.

Treatment: Physical therapy, PRP, arthroscopy. Joint replacement—extremely rare in young patients, a decision made with great care.

The Key Message

Osteoarthritis in young people is not inevitable—it is largely the consequence of factors that can be prevented or managed.

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