New research describes how gut microbacteria can play a key role in osteoarthritis
January 30, 2020
Osteoarthritis(OA) is one of the most common types of arthritis worldwide and occurs when the cartilage at the ends of bones within the joints begins to degrade and cause pain. Although gut microbiota has been found to be harmless and even have protective properties, scientists have found increased gut bacteria in the affected areas of individuals with osteoarthritis. This bacteria likely traveled through the bloodstream to the impacted area. While this may not cause OA it can worsen the disease during the early stages by traveling deep into the cartilage causing increased inflammation and breakdown.
This study may be critical to future treatment of OA due to most doctors’ lack of awareness of personal gut microbiota. Further research of microbacteria is needed before any treatments can be effectively incorporated into standard care.
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