According to Dr Pramod V Satya, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospital Millers Road (India), thyroid disorders, including conditions like hypothyroidism (low thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can have a wide range of effects on the body. Thyroid disorders can affect joint health, causing conditions like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.
“Although thyroid hormones do not directly affect joint cartilage, these disorders lead to joint problems through a variety of mechanisms,” says Dr. Satya. “In most cases, hypothyroidism-related joint problems involve multiple joints, often the weight-bearing joints of the knees and ankles.”
Hypothyroidism and joint pain
Hypothyroidism, characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, can indirectly lead to joint problems through several mechanisms:
Muscle weakness
“Muscle weakness is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. It particularly affects the proximal muscles (closer to the core) and can alter the alignment of the joints,” Dr. Satya notes. As a result, the joints can be subjected to abnormal stress, leading to the development of osteoarthritis, or wear and tear. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition in which the cartilage in the joints wears away over time, causing joint pain and discomfort.
Body weight gain
“Hypothyroidism often leads to weight gain due to a slowing of the metabolism,” says Dr. Satya. “This extra body weight puts extra pressure on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and ankles.” This increased mechanical stress can accelerate the wear and tear of joint cartilage, increasing the risk of arthritis and osteoarthritis in obese patients.
Increased uric acid leads to gouty arthritis
Hypothyroidism can lead to increased levels of uric acid in the blood, which can contribute to gouty arthritis. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This buildup leads to severe joint pain and swelling.
Effects of hyperthyroidism
“Hyperthyroidism also has negative effects on joint health,” says Dr. Satya. “Hyperthyroidism disrupts calcium metabolism and reduces parathyroid hormone production.” This imbalance contributes to loss of bone density, leading to the serious condition osteoporosis. Severe bone and joint pain can result from fractures and general bone deterioration.
Conclude
“In both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, joint problems can vary in severity and location. Also, not all people with thyroid disorders experience joint pain or related problems. However, early intervention to diagnose joint problems is important for people with thyroid disorders as this can help in managing and resolving the underlying joint problems effectively,” concludes Dr. Satya.
