BlueNet SPECIALITIES
Orthopedics and Traumatology

Does excess weight affect your joints?

How weight influences your joint health and what you can do.

Does excess weight affect your joints?

Overweight and obesity not only affect metabolic health; they also have a direct impact on the musculoskeletal system. Many people do not associate joint pain with body weight, but every extra kilogram can increase the load on your joints—especially weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine.

In this article, we explain why this happens and what you can do to protect your joints in the long term.

How does weight affect the joints?

Joints such as the knees and hips are designed to support body weight in a balanced way. When body weight increases:

Increased pressure on joint surfaces

For example, in a person who is overweight, the force exerted on the knee can be 2–3 times body weight during activities such as walking or climbing stairs.

Faster cartilage wear

Continuous friction can accelerate cartilage degeneration, making pain and stiffness more likely.

Muscles have to work harder

This can increase fatigue and lead to postural compensations that cause discomfort in the back and hips.

Which joints are most affected?

Knees
They are the most prone to pain and wear due to repetitive load.

Hips
They support a large portion of body weight, especially during walking and running.

Lumbar spine
Excess weight can increase lumbar curvature and contribute to lower back pain.


Common related symptoms

If you experience any of the following symptoms and are overweight, they may be related to increased joint pressure:

  • Pain when walking or standing for long periods

  • Stiffness when getting up in the morning

  • Swelling or clicking sounds in the joint

  • Persistent lower back pain


What can you do to take care of your joints?

Maintain a healthy weight

Losing even a few kilograms can significantly reduce joint stress and improve symptoms.

Adapted physical activity

Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, or moderate walking strengthen muscles without overloading the joints.

Muscle strengthening

Stronger muscles help protect the joints and improve stability.

Consult an Orthopedist

A specialist can evaluate your joints and recommend therapies, exercises, or additional studies as part of a personalized care plan.




When to consult Orthopedics

Seek medical attention if:

  • Pain limits your daily activities

  • Pain persists for several weeks

  • There is swelling or significant loss of mobility

  • You experience nighttime pain or difficulty sleeping

  • You have pain when going up or down stairs

At BlueNet Hospitals, you’ll find specialists in Orthopedics and Traumatology, ready to assess your joint health and support you with a comprehensive care plan.

Schedule your appointment via WhatsApp: (624) 151 0693