Is Arthritis a Disease Only for Old People?

Most people think arthritis is something that only affects the elderly. But the truth is — arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children, young adults, and middle-aged individuals.

Let’s bust the myth.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis simply means inflammation of the joints. It causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. There are over 100 types of arthritis, and each type affects different age groups in different ways.

Types of Arthritis and Who It Affects

1. Osteoarthritis (OA)

   • Most common type.
   • Typically affects people over 50, but younger people with joint injuries or obesity can also develop it early.
   • Often seen in knees, hips, and hands.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

   • An autoimmune disease.
   • Can start between ages 20–40.
   • More common in women.

3. Juvenile Arthritis

   • Affects children under 16.
   • Causes joint swelling, pain, and stiffness.
   • Can impact growth and development if untreated.

4. Post-Traumatic Arthritis

   • Happens after a joint injury — such as from sports or accidents.
   • Can develop years later, even in people in their 30s or 40s.

Why Younger People Get Arthritis

• Genetics
• Autoimmune conditions
• Joint injuries (like ACL tears, fractures)
• Obesity or poor joint alignment
• Sedentary lifestyle or overuse of joints (especially in athletes)

Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

• Joint stiffness in the morning
• Swelling after activity
• Pain that lasts more than a few days
• Difficulty bending or using a joint

If you’re under 50 and have these symptoms, don’t ignore them thinking you’re “too young for arthritis.”

Final Takeaway

Arthritis is not just an old person’s disease.

It can happen at any age — but the good news is, early diagnosis and treatment can keep it under control and prevent joint damage.

At Anand Surgical Hospital, Ahmedabad, we offer advanced arthritis care, including non-surgical and surgical options like Augmented Reality-assisted Knee Replacement (Pixee Knee+).

Have joint pain at a young age? Get it checked today.

Contact Us: Phone: 9104142796
Address: Anand Surgical Hospital Pvt. Ltd., near Memco Cross Road, Naroda, Ahmedabad 382345, Gujarat