Osteoarthritis and Hypothyroidism: What's the Association? A Literature Review

Osteoarthritis (OA) and hypothyroidism are two prevalent conditions with interrelated mechanisms suggesting a potential connection between them. Several studies have indicated that individuals with hypothyroidism are twice as likely to develop OA in their knees compared to those without hypothyroidism. Furthermore, individuals with hypothyroidism are more prone to experiencing joint pain and stiffness, possibly attributed to the effect of thyroid hormone on bone and cartilage proliferation and differentiation, thus increasing the risk of OA. Although the precise relationship between OA and hypothyroidism remains incompletely understood, research underscores a significant association, suggesting a heightened risk of OA development in individuals with hypothyroidism. This research aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this relationship and its implications for managing OA in patients with hypothyroidism.