Exercise and Osteoarthritis

The relationship between exercise and arthritis has always been one of public interest.  Exercise is beneficial to joints because it increases the circulation of synovial fluid which bathe the articular cartilage with nutrients.

The exact amount of exercise that would benefit and not be destructive to joints is difficult to determine.

Studies indicate that certain activities such as competitive high impact running and occupations which require deep knee bending and lifting before the age of 50 years may be associated with an increased risk of hip osteoarthritis.

Recreational jogging for individuals of 60 or more years of age with normal knee and hip joints does not increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

Optimal management for osteoarthritis will involve preventing the loss of joint space by engaging life style changes to decrease loading and maintain joint range of motion.

Early signs of osteoarthritis respond well to aerobic exercise.