How Do Previous Joint Injuries From An Accident Or Sports Affect My Risk Of Developing Osteoarthritis?

Dr. Guettler answers the question: 'Joint Injuries And Osteoarthritis Risk?'

ByABC News
November 18, 2008, 11:17 AM

— -- Question: How do previous joint injuries from an accident or sports affect my risk of developing osteoarthritis?

Answer: It is well known that injuries from either sports or accidents can result in arthritis later on in life. The reason being is that younger patients can knock divots or holes in their articular cartilage. If left untreated, those holes can turn into bigger holes, and the cartilage surrounding those holes can degenerate. Hence, patients can develop arthritis.

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