As we age, our bodies undergo a multitude of changes that can leave us feeling creaky and sore. But what if I told you that joint pain and stiffness aren’t just reserved for seniors? The reality is that starting around age 30, our bodies begin to lose bone density and muscle mass, putting strain on our joints and setting the stage for potential pain and discomfort.

Some people are diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis (OA) in their 30s. When this happens, we’re forced to confront the harsh reality of joint degeneration at a relatively young age. Osteoarthritis, also known as “wear and tear” arthritis, occurs when the cartilage protecting our joints wears down, leaving bones to grind against each other.

Fast forward a few years, and some with OA may need to undergo knee replacement surgery in their 50s. This serves as a stark reminder that joint pain is not just an age-related issue, but a potential reality for anyone, regardless of age.

So, what’s behind this trend? According to Keith Roach, MD, an associate attending physician at New York-Presbyterian Hospital and an associate professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College, “Most people will develop some degree of osteoarthritis. That is what usually causes joint aches and pains as people get older.”

But here’s the thing: not all new joint pain can be chalked up to OA. Sometimes, it’s the result of an injury or another underlying disease. The takeaway? Don’t write off your creaky joints as just a normal part of aging. There may be more to the story.

OA can strike fear and worry into many of us.  That’s because it’s not always “wear and tear.”  In fact, research reveals that the degree of structural wear and tear visible on an X-ray does not correlate with the level of pain or disability experienced by individuals. This misconception can lead to unnecessary worry, fear, and even invasive treatments like surgery.

Fortunately, most people can effectively control their pain and improve mobility without resorting to surgery.

Exercise is often misunderstood as potentially damaging to the joint further. However, research confirms that it’s safe and can reduce pain and disability. In fact, exercise boasts fewer side effects than commonly used pain medicines like paracetamol and anti-inflammatories. Various types of exercises, including strength training, aerobic activities like walking or cycling, yoga, and tai chi, are effective for knee osteoarthritis.

Additionally, it may not be OA that’s affecting your joints. It could be osteoporosis, which has to do with bone density. If that’s the cause of your aches and pains, it is often improved through a change in your diet, including boosting your protein.

Ultimately, joint pain can impact all of us, regardless of age – our knees, our elbows, our ankles – and every other creak you may encounter throughout the body. Knowing whether it’s osteoarthritis or osteoporosis is essential. Regardless, though, it pays to be informed. Managing the condition allows you to take control so that the pain isn’t dictating your quality of life.

Embrace the non-surgical interventions so you can be healthy and active at any age!