The objective of this study is the investigation concerning an etiologic correlation between specific occupational strains and gonarthrosis in men and women. Using a case-control-study, 195 patients afflicted with gonarthrosis as well as 325 people with a radiologically excluded gonarthrosis serving as the reference group were involved in the study. Cases comprising the reference group suffered from knee problems, although a disease affecting the meniscus had been excluded. A representative random sample (n = 108) consisting of the male population of Frankfurt/Main was incorporated into the study as an additional reference group. The information was gathered with the help of a questionnaire that was completed by the study participants themselves; using a logistical regression analysis, adjusted odds ratios were calculated for age, body mass index and leisure sports activities. Male construction and metal workers as well as women employed in non-service occupations showed an increased risk of developing gonarthrosis. The men showed a correlation between frequent lifting and carrying of heavy loads over a more than 10-year period. The combined evaluation of both men and women revealed a negative correlation between work performed in a sitting position and gonarthrosis. Work performed in a kneeling, crouching or bent over body posture showed no significant findings, although the power of the study is rather limited. Summarizing it can be concluded that the presented study - in accordance with current literature sources - presents new evidence for a correlation between occupations involving physical strain and the development of gonarthrosis.