Six risk factors that contribute to arthritis in the hips and lower back

Arthritis in Hips & Back

Arthritis causes pain and stiffness in the hips and lower backs of many American adults. There are treatments that can help reduce pain and manage the symptoms of arthritis, but there is no cure for the condition.

Are you wondering if you’re at risk for arthritis in your hips and lower back? Take a look below at some of the most common risk factors that contribute to arthritis. 

Six risk factors of arthritis in your hips and lower back

  1. Age — Growing older increases your risk for conditions that can contribute to the development of arthritis. For example, degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that affects everyone’s spines as they age. Some people never notice its effects, but others experience pain and stiffness in the vertebrae that can contribute to arthritis.
  2. Frequent overexertion — People who frequently participate in physically demanding activities like contact sports or physical labor may be at a higher risk for arthritis in the hips and back. You can help lower your risk if you properly warm up, cool down and take plenty of breaks.
  3. Improper lifting — Picking up heavy objects off the floor while bending at the hips causes strain in the lower back and hips. Too much of this can contribute to the development of arthritis later on in life.
  4. Excess weight — Too much body weight puts a lot of pressure on your joints, especially those in your lower back, hips and knees. You can help reduce your risk of developing back and hip arthritis by maintaining a healthy weight.
  5. Previous injuries — Previous injuries to the lower back and hips make you more likely to develop arthritis in the future. You can reduce the chances of this happening by making sure you receive proper treatment after your injury, although this is no guarantee of prevention.
  6. Sex — Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of arthritis. 

 

Visit SSOR if you need treatment for arthritis in your hips and lower back

Do you fit in one or more of the categories above? Do you have pain and stiffness in your lower back and hips that might be connected to arthritis? Our physical therapists at SSOR can examine your condition and determine how physical therapy can help you. Contact our team today for more information about hip and lower back arthritis or to schedule an initial appointment.