MSBDX

I have a 98 civic DX and i recently took it to belle tire for a alignment. come to figure out that both of my upper ball joints and very very loose. I was wondering if it might be because it is lowered (Neuspeed race springs 2.50 in rear and 2.25 front) or because it just has so many milea on it and they have never been replaced (the car has 176,000 miles). Thanks to any 1 that can help me out.