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When Does Arthritis Start? Understanding the Onset of Joint Pain

Medically reviewed by Dr. Amal Mehta, MD.

Arthritis is a term that encompasses a wide range of joint disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. While it is often associated with older adults, arthritis can begin at various stages of life, depending on the type. In this blog, we’ll explore when arthritis typically starts, the different forms it can take, and what factors may contribute to its onset.

Osteoarthritis: The Wear-and-Tear Type

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and is often referred to as the “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility in the affected joints.

When Does It Start? Osteoarthritis typically begins in middle age, around the 40s or 50s, and becomes more prevalent as we age. The risk of developing OA increases with age, making it more common in people over 65. However, it can start earlier, especially in individuals with a history of joint injuries, obesity, or a family history of OA.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Autoimmune Challenge

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can affect people of any age.

When Does It Start? Rheumatoid arthritis commonly begins between the ages of 30 and 60, but it can start earlier or later. Women are more likely to develop RA, and it often appears earlier in women than in men. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing RA and preventing severe joint damage.

Juvenile Arthritis: When Kids Are Affected

While arthritis is typically associated with older adults, it can also affect children. Juvenile arthritis (JA) is an umbrella term for several types of arthritis that occur in children under the age of 16. This condition can affect a child’s growth and development, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

When Does It Start? Juvenile arthritis can start at any age during childhood, often between the ages of 2 and 16. The cause of JA is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked to Skin Conditions

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. PsA can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and it often affects the fingers, toes, and spine.

When Does It Start? Psoriatic arthritis usually develops in people between the ages of 30 and 50, often after the onset of psoriasis. However, PsA can also appear in people who do not have a history of psoriasis, making its onset less predictable.

Factors Influencing the Onset of Arthritis

The onset of arthritis can be influenced by various factors, including:

  • Genetics: A family history of arthritis can increase your risk.
  • Injuries: Previous joint injuries can make you more susceptible to developing arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis.
  • Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, particularly in the knees, hips, and spine, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
  • Gender: Some forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, are more common in women.

Conclusion

Arthritis is a complex condition that can start at different stages of life depending on the type. While osteoarthritis typically begins in middle age and progresses with age, rheumatoid arthritis can start earlier, and juvenile arthritis affects children. Understanding the type of arthritis and its onset can help in seeking timely medical advice and management strategies. If you’re experiencing joint pain or stiffness, regardless of your age, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

Jessica Veliz, FNP-BC

Jessica Veliz, FNP-BC,

Jessica Veliz, FNP-BC, is a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in rheumatology, with several years of experience caring for patients with a wide range of rheumatic disorders. 

Jessica earned her graduate nursing education from The University of Texas at El Paso. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and enjoys helping patients feel informed and comfortable throughout their healthcare journey. 

Outside of her professional life, Jessica enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and exploring new places.

Danielle-Poth

Danielle Poth, PA-C

Danielle has several years of experience caring for patients with a wide range of autoimmune, inflammatory, and musculoskeletal conditions. She evaluates and treats diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, gout, osteoporosis, vasculitis, polymyalgia rheumatica, and osteoarthritis, among others. She is experienced in managing complex rheumatic diseases through evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each patient’s individual needs and goals.

Committed to providing the highest quality care, Danielle actively pursues continuing education to stay current with advances in rheumatology. She has completed educational courses through the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and regularly attends rheumatology conferences and professional meetings to expand her clinical knowledge and stay current on emerging therapies, treatment guidelines, and best practices in patient care.

Her clinical interests include early diagnosis and intervention, disease management, biologic and targeted therapies, osteoporosis prevention and treatment, and helping patients improve function and quality of life. Danielle collaborates with patients to educate them about their conditions and treatment options, empowering them to take an active role in their healthcare journey.

Known for her compassionate and approachable style, Danielle strives to build lasting relationships with her patients and provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. She values open communication, shared decision-making, and treating each patient with empathy and respect.

Outside of the clinic, Danielle enjoys traveling, exploring San Diego’s outdoor lifestyle, and spending time with family and friends.

Augusto-Banayat,-FNP

Augusto Banayat, FNP

Augusto Famanas Banayat is an experienced Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner with a strong clinical background in patient-centered care and chronic disease management. He began his healthcare career after earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chinese General Hospital College of Nursing, Philippines. He later advanced his education in the United States, earning his Nurse Practitioner degree from United States University. Throughout his career, Augusto has worked with many respected healthcare organizations including Fresenius Medical Care, Davita Medical Center, Cabrillo Center for Rheumatic Diseases and Kaiser Permanente. Outside of his professional life, Augusto enjoys mountain biking and fishing.

DrAmit-Sureen

Dr. Amit Sureen

Dr. Amit Sureen earned a B.S. from UC Irvine, followed by a M.S. and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Sureen completed his Internal Medicine residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in El Paso, and his Rheumatology Fellowship at the University of Missouri.  

Dr. Sureen’s approach to treating rheumatic diseases involves actively listening to patients to understand their needs, providing education, and using evidence-based medicine to achieve the best possible outcomes. He believes that each patient’s experience and needs are unique, and creates individualized treatment plans to meet each patient’s specific health goals. Dr. Sureen feels privileged to build lasting relationships with his patients and genuinely enjoys providing for their care and comfort. 

Dr. Sureen specializes in treatment of Arthritis, Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Gout, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Scleroderma, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, Inflammatory Myopathies, and Vasculitis.

In his spare time, he enjoys playing basketball, hiking, exercising and traveling. He genuinely cares about the well-being of his patients and is proud to be a part of the Southland Arthritis team. 

Dr. Marc Phillpotts

Dr. Marc Phillpotts

Dr. Marc Phillpotts is a board certified physician in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Dr. Phillpotts earned his medical degree at The University of the West Indies in Jamaica. He moved to Washington, DC where he completed Residency training in Internal Medicine at Howard University Hospital, then Fellowship training at the George Washington University. He has held an academic position as an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the GW SMHS. He is a member of several professional societies including the American Medical Association, International Society of Clinical Densitometry and American College of Rheumatology. Dr. Phillpotts has expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasound and bone densitometry. In his spare time, Dr. Phillpotts enjoys running, swimming and tennis.