Can Bariatric Surgery Reverse Osteoarthritis?

When discussing bariatric surgery as a treatment option for osteoarthritis, it’s essential to define precisely what osteoarthritis is and whether it can be reversed. Osteoarthritis is the degradation of the joints, usually due to mechanical wear and tear and hormonal/chemical issues within the body. Most studies show that excess weight puts significant additional pressure on the sensitive cartilage that keeps our bones from rubbing against each other, wearing it down and ultimately causing arthritis. More recently, research has shown that inflammatory cytokines associated with adipose or abdominal fat tissue may also react with the joints and cause degradation through inflammation. This one-two punch means that many patients with obesity also often suffer from significant knee, back, and ankle pain.

With all that said, we know that bariatric surgery and any modality that allows for significant, sustained weight loss can reduce the risk of progression of osteoarthritis by taking pressure off and rebalancing hormonal activity within the body to ensure more balanced function.

There is some nuance in whether osteoarthritis can be reversed. It mostly surrounds what we mean by “reversed.”

The bottom line is that osteoarthritis itself (the degeneration) cannot be reversed. Once damage has been done to the joint and the sensitive cartilage tissue, it’s done. However, losing weight and eliminating stressors on the joint, both mechanical and chemical, can reduce or even eliminate symptoms like pain and limited range of motion. It’s not uncommon to hear of some patients who are told to have bariatric surgery before a joint replacement ending up not needing the replacement surgery at all because their pain has improved dramatically. Once again, this shows how significant weight loss can make a tremendous difference in pain levels within the body.

Prevention of Osteoarthritis

Of course, prevention is far superior to treatment when it comes to osteoarthritis, so the sooner patients can start their weight loss program, whether medical or surgical, the less likely they are to suffer from debilitating joint pain caused by osteoarthritis. With all the weight loss options available today, speaking to a qualified weight loss specialist like Dr. Abbas is a great way to understand the full breadth of options that may suit you.

GLP-1s and Their Limitations

When compared to living with morbid obesity, GLP-1 receptor agonist medications are often an excellent choice to help patients lose weight and improve their health over the short term. With weight loss results approaching 25% for about 50% of patients, these medications can induce significant improvements across all metabolic markers. However, for patients with high BMIs, typically over 40, these medications are often less effective. However, these medications can be used before bariatric surgery to reduce surgical risk.

Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is the best long-term weight loss option for patients with obesity. From the gastric sleeve to the duodenal switch, there are options for any patient with morbid obesity. With standardized techniques and modern technology, bariatric surgery is safer than ever, especially in the hands of an experienced bariatric surgeon like Dr. Abbas.

The Bottom Line

Osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, but continued damage can be mitigated with a comprehensive weight loss program, including diet and exercise, GLP-1 receptor agonist weight loss medications, and bariatric surgery, depending on the patient and their circumstance. However, anyone embarking on a weight loss program should know that diet and exercise are the foundation for long-term success, no matter what tool. Speaking to a qualified and experienced weight loss practice like ours in Jacksonville is critical to ensuring you receive the best care.