Title
The onset of generalized osteoarthritis in older women: A qualitative approach
Author
Okma-Keulen, P.
Hopman-Rock, M.
Publication year
2001
Abstract
Objective. This qualitative study aims to investigate which factors are possibly associated with the onset of generalized osteoarthritis (OA) in older women. Methods. The study population was recruited from participants of a group course, "Coping With Osteoarthritis of the Hip or Knee." Twenty-three women with generalized OA were identified, 20 of whom participated in a semistructured interview at home. All data were self-reported by the subjects. Results. Hereditary factors were present in 17 women. Metabolic factors (such as impairments in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, diabetes, etc.) were not prevalent. Twelve women thought that certain diets influenced their pain symptoms. Five women spontaneously mentioned their health status during the Second World War as a cause of their OA. Four considered too much stress as being a cause, and in 13 women symptoms started after a period of stressful life events or depression. Conclusion. According to the respondents, depression, stress, and diets are associated with the onset and worsening of their generalized OA. Heredity and a low health status at a vulnerable age may also be important. These findings could generate new hypotheses that can be tested in future quantitative studies.
Subject
Health
Qualitative
Women
Adult
Clinical article
Depression
Diet
Disease exacerbation
Health status
Heredity
Pain
Stress
Age of Onset
Aged
Chondrocytes
Chronology
Female
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
Humans
Joints
Life Style
Middle Aged
Netherlands
Osteoarthritis
Risk Factors
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TNO identifier
236260
ISSN
0893-7524
Source
Arthritis Care and Research, 45 (2), 183-190
Document type
article