Factors associated with the development of osteoarthritis (OA) in women.
Type
Factor
Non modifiable
GeneticsFemale sexAge
Modifiable
ObesityJoint injuryOccupational load
Female-specific
Anatomic and biomechanicalSmaller vertebral bodiesLower muscle supportGreater ligament flexibilityReduced stability Q angleGreater lumbar curvatureLimb alignmentQuadriceps strengthAcetabular and femoral morphology
Hormonal and metabolicOverweight and obesityVitamin D deficiencyMetabolic syndromePolycystic ovary syndromeLow estrogen and progesterone levelsLow testosterone levels
Reproductive and menstrual factorsEarly menarcheEarly menopauseEarly age of parityLower age at first live birthPregnancy biomechanicsMultiparityDuration of breastfeedingEarlier age of oral contraceptive pills
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