Does running cause osteoarthritis?

Back In Motion Brunswick Principal physio (and keen runner) Marcus shares his thoughts on media reports that jogging is adding to rising arthritis in young Australians.

“This article appears to speculate that since both the incidence of osteoarthritis (OA) in younger people is increasing, and so too is the percentage of the same age bracket who classify themselves as runners, then therefore one must cause the other.

The scientific research indicates that this is not the case - infact running may reduce the incidence of knee OA!

There are many potential reasons for OA to be increasing in the younger population, and the clear finding of increasing obesity is surely to be a culprit.

Here is a great blog on OA in runners. You can also read our blog on running and OA.

I certainly believe that poor training programs (too much too soon), poor running technique (overstriding), and poor footwear can increase the risk of injuries but I feel this article is misleading and gives people the belief that running will cause knee OA.

Statistics gathered from Medibank data doesn't constitute scientific research.

So before everyone hangs up their running shoes and takes to cycling and swimming for their cardio, please consider your bones.

High impact activities are very important to maintain strong healthy bones. Cycling and swimming don't provide impact and therefore don't help with bone density, and sitting on the couch playing an XBox is even worse!

Articles like this are potentially harmful and can discourage people to stop a healthy activity- that we are designed to do!”