Weightlifting & Osteoarthritis: Can Free Weights Cause Joint Problems?

Question
I want to start a weight lifting regimine at home using free weights and I'm worried that it could lead to osteoarthritis in later years. Is that so? The reason I ask is because I have noticed that people who were active in sports in their younger years need knee replacements and have stiff joints when they get older. I'm in my mid 38. Thanks

Answer
Hi Joe,
Weight lifting will not lead to osteoarthritis. Those that you speak of have had joint trauma, but weight lifting will not do this.
START SLOWLY. Muscles and tendons do not respond to stresses of weight lifting like a twenty year old's would.