Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis.  Known as the wear-and-tear kind of arthritis, osteoarthritis is a chronic condition which involves breakdown of a joint’s cartilage. Morbidly obese patients are at particularly high risk for osteoarthritis, as excess body weight placed on joints, particularly knees and hips, results in rapid wear and tear, and pain caused by inflammation.  Similarly, bones and muscles of the back are constantly strained, causing disk problems, pain, and decreased mobility.  This disability results in difficulty walking, working, and also losing weight.

How is it affected by bariatric surgery?

The less weight is placed on joints, the less strain is placed on these joints. Weight loss surgery can reduce much of this weight over a long period of time and can be very effective in reversing or preventing osteoarthritis.

What success have patients found through bariatric surgery?

A recent study of 500 patients showed a 90% resolution of arthritis among surgical patients.