Living with knee osteoarthritis doesn't have to mean giving up running altogether. When approached correctly, running can even help reduce arthritis pain in individuals with mild to moderate cases. It is not necessary to run a marathon; engaging in mild to moderate exercise can be beneficial for easing pain and maintaining a healthy weight with osteoarthritis. To learn more about the dos and don'ts of running with arthritis, we spoke to Dr Amith Reddy P, Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad.
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis refers to a degenerative condition that predominantly impacts the knee joint, resulting in joint deterioration. It is the most common form of arthritis and develops gradually over time. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones within the knee joint wears down, leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
The exact cause of knee osteoarthritis is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development. These factors may include age, genetics, obesity, joint injury or trauma, and repetitive stress on the joint.
According to Dr Reddy, sedentary individuals have a higher occurrence of hip and knee osteoarthritis compared to those who engage in recreational running. This suggests that regular exercise, including running, can play a vital role in preventing and managing arthritis symptoms.
Also Read: 5 Advantages Of Early Diagnosis And Treatment Of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Dos Of Running With Arthritis
Here are some dos you should follow while running with knee osteoarthritis.
Warm-Up Before Running
"Prior to running, warm-ups are crucial to prepare the body for exercise and reduce the risk of injury. Stretching after running helps maintain flexibility and can alleviate muscle soreness," said Reddy.
Aim At Strengthening the Quadriceps Muscles
Moreover, exercises aimed at strengthening the quadriceps muscles are beneficial for reducing strain on the knee joint during running. Stronger muscles provide better support to the knee, potentially minimising the impact on the arthritic joint.
Find The Right Pair Of Shoes
Finding the right pair of shoes is also equally important. What might be a good running shoe for a normal knee might not be good enough for an arthritic knee, explained Dr Reddy.
Recognise Pain While Running And Seek Medical Attention
"It is crucial to identify the true cause of any pain experienced while running, as there could be factors other than arthritis at play," added the doctor. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
Also Read: Deciphering The Connection Between Rheumatoid Arthritis And Headache
Don'ts Of Running With Arthritis
When it comes to running with arthritis, there are some important don'ts to keep in mind, said Dr Reddy.
Don't Do High-Impact Exercises
"Exercises such as squats, deep lunges, walking or running up stairs, and high-impact sports involving repetitive jumping should be avoided as they can exacerbate arthritis symptoms," he added. He explained that these activities place excessive stress on the joints and can potentially worsen pain and inflammation.
Don't Overexert Yourself
While running can be a beneficial form of exercise for individuals with arthritis, it is important to listen to the body and avoid overexertion. Pay attention to any signs of increased pain or discomfort during or after running, as this could indicate the need to modify the routine or seek further medical advice.
Conclusion
Running can be a viable exercise option for individuals with knee osteoarthritis, as it can be helpful in reducing pain and maintaining overall health. However, it is crucial to approach running with caution and take precautions. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure personalised guidance and support while navigating running with arthritis.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided by a registered dietician. However, we recommend you consult your healthcare provider for a diet plan as per your body's requirements.]
