Is Arthritis Hereditary?

Your family history can determine features like your height, your hair color and even your eye color. But your genetic makeup can also contribute to your risk of developing certain medical conditions such as breast cancer and diabetes.

And if you or a family member have been dealing with arthritis and symptoms like joint pain, stiffness and inflammation, you may wonder: Is arthritis hereditary?

“We know that there is a genetic component to most types of arthritis,” says rheumatologist Lia Jamian, MD.

While your genetic makeup may play a role, there are also other risk factors and causes to consider. That means that if you have arthritis, you won’t necessarily pass it on to other family members — and if you have a family member with arthritis, that doesn’t automatically mean you’ll develop arthritis.

Dr. Jamian explains what common types of arthritis come with an inherited risk and how you can lower your chances of arthritis.

What types of arthritis are hereditary?

There are more than 100 types of arthritis, and there’s likely a hereditary component to all of them. But the genetic risk varies and is considered the highest if a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) has arthritis.

Dr. Jamian discusses some of the most common forms of arthritis and their genetic implications.

Is osteoarthritis hereditary?

Easily the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis can cause inflammation and damage to joints when cartilage that covers the ends of bones degenerate.

“There are hereditary forms of osteoarthritis that are caused by mutations in genes for collagen,” says Dr. Jamian.

This type of osteoarthritis can first appear at a young age, quickly causing severe damage; though, it’s not very common. Around 40% to 65% of osteoarthritis has a genetic component, with a stronger link for hand and hip cases. Dr. Jamian says that there isn’t a singular gene that causes cases of osteoarthritis.

“Multiple genes are involved,” she notes. “The influence of other factors, such as obesity, joint injuries, aging and joint anatomy, is also quite substantial.”

Is rheumatoid arthritis hereditary?

Genetic factors are more strongly linked to cases of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Classified as an autoimmune disease, RA primarily targets the lining of joints, mistakenly attacking the healthy tissue instead of damaged tissue.

Some environmental factors — such as infection, injury or smoking — can trigger immune system response in genetically susceptible people. In addition, there are more than 100 genes that may be linked to RA and the damaging effects on the immune system.

Is ankylosing spondylitis hereditary?

This type of arthritis causes inflammation in the spinal joints. Approximately 90% of people with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) carry a gene named HLA-B27.

Detected by a laboratory test, Dr. Jamian warns that a positive test by itself isn’t diagnostic.

“Not everyone with the gene gets AS, and some people without the gene develop it,” she clarifies.

Biological family history also plays a role in your susceptibility. People who have a family member with AS are more likely to develop the disease compared with those without the gene and no family history.

Is gout arthritis hereditary?

An inflammatory form of arthritis, gout causes pain and swelling in your joints due to a buildup of uric acid in your body.

In addition to factors like eating a lot of animal protein and drinking alcohol regularly, some genes can also increase your risk of gout.

“There are certain genes that are involved in gout, which can affect uric acid production and excretion,” elaborates Dr. Jamian. “The inheritance pattern is still unclear; however, many genes are likely involved.”

Other factors that put you at risk for arthritis besides genetics

It just isn’t your family history that can increase your chances of arthritis. The following factors may also play a role:

• Age
• Diet
• Lifestyle
• Sex
• Weight
• Activity level
• Joint injuries
• Tobacco use
• Other medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases

How to lower your risk of arthritis despite genetics

You can decrease your chances of arthritis by implementing certain lifestyle changes, like:

• Follow a healthy diet. Dr. Jamian recommends the Mediterranean diet, as it can help lower inflammation and decrease cardiovascular risk. “Many forms of arthritis have an increased or associated risk of cardiovascular disease,” explains Dr. Jamian.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Having obesity can put excessive pressure on your joints, like your knees. Over time, this can cause your cartilage to wear away and lead to pain and swelling.
• Do low-impact exercises. Opt for low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming and biking. These activities won’t cause additional damage to your joints, and low-impact exercises will help with your stability, mobility and flexibility, not to mention reduce pain.
• Avoid tobacco products. The goal is to protect your joints. And cigarettes and other tobacco products contain free radicals that can damage your cells and cause inflammation.

Bottom line: Is arthritis genetic?

While your genes can contribute to the likelihood you’ll develop arthritis, it isn’t the only factor you need to consider.

If you start noticing stiffness and soreness in your joints, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider who can conduct a physical exam, test your range of motion, recommend physical therapy and offer a treatment plan, like medication to help with pain and inflammation.

They may also refer you to a rheumatologist or orthopaedist, who can work with you to ease pain and improve your joint movement.

“It’s really important to see a doctor early to determine what type of arthritis you have, so we can provide a treatment plan specific to your needs,” advises Dr. Jamian.