Runners and Knee Osteoarthritis
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Original Editor - Kapil Narale
Top Contributors - Kapil Narale and Lucinda hampton
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Running has become an increasingly popular activity, and form of exercise, throughout the world, over the last few decades. Although injuries are possible, there are many health benefits to running. However, there is a large misconception that running may lead to osteoarthritis. In fact, there is evidence to prove that this opinion is not correct.[1]
As mentioned on the Osteoarthritis page, osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition. It affects the joints, cartilage, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Its main cause its linked to metabolic and systemic conditions, such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and high blood glucose levels, to name a few. Individuals can be asymptomatic, thus would only be diagnosed when they notice symptoms such as joint line tenderness, reduced range of motion, crepitus with movement, joint effusion, and/or joint space deformity, and seek medical attention. [1]
Factors Associated with Osteoarthritis[edit | edit source]
Some intrinsic risk factors for developing osteoarthritis include: [1]
- Age
- Gender
- Genetics
Extrinsic modifiable risk factors include: [1]
- Previous injury
- Activity level
- Occupational tasks
- Obesity
Sports, such as soccer or football, which involve repetitive, high impact, torsional forces, are more likely to lead to osteoarthritis. Previous injuries to muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, can also increase the likelihood of osteoarthritis. [1]
It is seen that an increase in body mass has a direct effect on osteoarthritis. As one's weight increases, the biomechanics of human movement alters, as the loading surfaces of articular cartilage in weightbearing joints. For instance, with a single-leg stance, an increase in 1lb of bodyweight increases the loading on the knee by about 2-3lbs. [1]
Reducing/Modifying OA factors[edit | edit source]
In overweight individuals, osteoarthritis symptoms can be more effectively prevented or minimized by the use of exercise and diet, instead of solely modifying their diet. [1]
Benefits of Running[edit | edit source]
Some noted benefits of running, as found from studies of runners and non-runners include, [1]
- Decreased risk of cardiovascular disease
- Decreased risk of Type II Diabetes
- Decreased risk of depression
- Decreased prevalence of disability and mortality
- Positively affects bone mineral density and weight control
Resources[edit | edit source]
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