Being 10 pounds overweight increases the force on the knee by 30–60 pounds with each step. Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder with symptoms in the knees, hips, back, neck and hands. Being overweight increases the load placed on joints, which in turn increases stress and could possibly hasten the breakdown of cartilage. For example, it is estimated that a force of three to six times one’s body weight is exerted across the knee while walking. Being overweight has also been associated with higher rates of osteoarthritis in the hands, suggesting the involvement of a circulating systemic factor.