The Hidden Threat Behind Your Achy Joints

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted July 20, 2024

Picture this…

You’re trying to enjoy a leisurely stroll in the park, but each step sends a jolt of pain through your knee.

Or maybe you’re attempting to open a stubborn jar lid, only to have your fingers refuse to cooperate, leaving you feeling frustrated and helpless.

Perhaps you’re simply trying to get out of bed in the morning, but your hips protest with every pain-filled movement, making you wonder if it’s even worth getting up at all.

If these scenarios sound all too familiar, you’re likely one of the millions living with osteoarthritis. This debilitating condition can turn even the simplest daily tasks into painful ordeals, robbing you of the joy and independence you once took for granted.

But here’s the kicker… that nagging joint pain? Well, it might be just the tip of the iceberg.

A groundbreaking new study from Sweden has revealed that osteoarthritis pain could be a harbinger of a much more complex health picture.

Researchers at Lund University followed the medical records of nearly 30,000 people for up to 20 years, and what they found is nothing short of alarming.

It turns out that people diagnosed with osteoarthritis were at a significantly higher risk of developing multiple additional chronic diseases over time. In fact, those with osteoarthritis were almost two and a half times more likely to develop severe multimorbidity compared to those who don’t!

Now, you might be wondering what “severe multimorbidity” means exactly. Well, in this study, it translated to an average of nearly ten chronic illnesses per person. That’s right—ten different health conditions to manage, all stemming from what might have started as a bit of joint pain.

Even those who developed milder forms of multimorbidity weren’t off the hook. People with osteoarthritis still faced a 29 percent higher risk of developing an average of three chronic conditions.

So, what’s behind this troubling connection?

The researchers believe it could be due to a few factors. First, osteoarthritis is often accompanied by low-grade inflammation and metabolic issues, which can set the stage for other health problems.

Additionally, the pain and reduced mobility associated with osteoarthritis can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, potentially contributing to conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

The study tracked over 50 health conditions, ranging from cardiovascular disease and cancer to back pain and cataracts. While there wasn’t a clear pattern to which conditions were most likely to develop, the sheer variety of potential health issues is concerning.

Now, before you start panicking about your creaky knees, it’s important to remember that this study doesn’t prove that osteoarthritis directly causes these other health problems. However, it means an osteoarthritis diagnosis should be taken as a serious wake-up call for your overall health.

• If you’re living with osteoarthritis or concerned about developing it, don’t ignore your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage pain and slow the progression of the disease.
• Next, focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise (tailored to your abilities and approved by your doctor), a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, and a healthy weight can all help manage pain and reduce your risk of developing other chronic conditions.
• Finally, work closely with your healthcare team. Regular check-ups and screenings can catch any developing health issues early, when they’re often easier to treat or manage.

Remember, your health is interconnected. By taking care of your joints, you’re taking care of your ENTIRE body. Don’t let osteoarthritis be the first domino in a cascade of health problems.

P.S. Find out here about a knee pain solution that helps stop the “Ouch!”

Source:

Dell’Isola A, Recenti F, Englund M, et al., Twenty-year trajectories of morbidity in individuals with and without osteoarthritis, RMD Open, 2024;10:e004164. doi: 10.1136/rmdopen-2024-004164

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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