Smoking: It’s Bad to the Bone
Smoking is well known for harming your lungs and heart, but did you know it also weakens your bones and joints? From increasing the risk of fractures to slowing down healing after surgery, smoking can have a serious impact on your skeletal system. Let’s take a closer look at how tobacco use affects your bones and joints.
Increased Risk of Osteoporosis and Fractures
Smoking reduces bone density, making bones weaker and more prone to fractures. This happens because nicotine and other harmful chemicals in cigarettes interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium, a key mineral for strong bones. Over time, smokers have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition where bones become brittle and break easily. Hip fractures, in particular, are more common in smokers and can lead to long-term disability.
Increased Joint Pain and Arthritis Risk
Smoking can make osteoarthritis—the wear-and-tear type of arthritis—worse by damaging cartilage, the cushioning between joints. Smoking also causes inflammation throughout the entire body, including inside your joints. This means smokers may experience more joint pain and stiffness as they age. Additionally, smoking has been linked to a higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease that causes painful swelling in the joints. In fact, smokers are twice as likely to develop RA compared to non-smokers.
Slower Healing After Surgery and Injuries
If you smoke and undergo surgery—especially procedures like joint replacements or spinal surgery—your body may struggle to heal properly. Nicotine narrows blood vessels, reducing blood flow to bones and tissues. This limits the oxygen and nutrients that are essential for healing. Studies show that smokers have a higher risk of complications after surgery, including infections and delayed bone healing. If you break a bone, smoking can prolong recovery time, keeping you in pain for longer.
Quit Smoking to Strengthen Your Bones
The good news? Quitting smoking can help your bones and joints recover. Studies show that bone density loss slows down once you quit, reducing the risk of fractures and improving healing time. If you have an upcoming surgery or are struggling with joint pain, quitting smoking can be one of the best steps toward a stronger, healthier body.
By making the choice to quit, you’re not just protecting your lungs—you’re giving your bones and joints the support they need to keep you moving for years to come.
