Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the many tissues of the joint. It is by far the most common form of arthritis.

Being just 10 pounds overweight puts an extra 15 to 50 pounds of pressure on your knees. This makes it more likely you’ll develop osteoarthritis (OA) or make the disease worse if you already have it. Carrying extra bodyweight in OA does more than adds stress and pressure on a joint. Fat cells promote inflammation, and excess fat acts to speed the destruction of cartilage.

OA gets worse faster and is more severe in obese people than in those who weigh less. People who are overweight or obese are more likely to need a hip or knee replacement. They also tend to have more complications and poorer outcomes after surgery.