Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, causes joints to degrade over time. Cartilage, the hard, smooth tissue covering the end of bones in a joint, provides a shock absorbing cushion and a smooth surface for the bones to move over. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage breaks away from the bone, resulting in bones rubbing against each other and bone damage. Vitamin D is necessary to maintain strong bones and prevent bone erosion.
Vitamin D and Bones
Normal levels of the mineral calcium in the blood are necessary for normal function of both nerve and bone cells. Vitamin D is critical for the absorption of calcium in the intestines. Therefore, people need adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D for optimal bone growth and density. Strong bones help to inhibit the wear and tear of bones that results from osteoarthritis.
Biology of Vitamin D
When sunlight hits the skin, it causes the synthesis of vitamin D. One of the chief causes of a vitamin D deficiency is less than adequate synthesis of this vitamin. People with very dark skin sometimes have trouble producing enough vitamin D because their skin does not absorb enough of the ultra-violet rays from the sun. Additionally, skin is less efficient at absorbing vitamin D as a person ages, so the elderly are more susceptible to a deficiency than the young.
Vitamin D and Osteoarthritis
While it is certain that vitamin D is necessary for the maintenance of strong bones, this vitamin may also be important for the health of the bone-protecting cartilage as well. Strong and healthy cartilage and bone are both necessary to resist the damaging effects of osteoarthritis. Additionally, the UCSD Medical Center reports that people with a vitamin D deficiency have much faster osteoarthritis progression than people with normal vitamin D levels.
Osteoarthritis Symptoms
One of the chief symptoms of osteoarthritis is pain at the affected joint. The pain often grows worse as the day progresses, or after periods of physical activity. You may also experience stiffness in the joint after a period of rest. Additionally, the joint range-of-motion will likely be limited, and the joint may be swollen or feel tender. In severe cases of osteoarthritis, the joint may become significantly deformed due to changes in the structure of the bone.
Recommendations
Most people over a year old should get at least 15 mcg of vitamin D per day, although people over 71 years old should have a vitamin D intake of 20 mcg per day. Short periods of exposure to sunlight a few times a week can supply all the vitamin D needed, but supplements or fortified foods may also be used as a source of this vitamin.
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