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The answer is both yes and no! Running does not directly cause arthritis, but it is the improper biomechanics of running together with the severity of exercise that can lead to arthritis. It has often been presumed that runners and athletes are at an increased risk of developing arthritis, which isn’t true however. There are no scientific evidences to prove this theory. However, this has now become an overwhelming fear and concerns in the minds of the runners, and they have now decided to quit running to join some lighter exercises.
Running is definitely a stressful exercise, with lots of pressure exerted in the joints. As the foot hits the field, the joints and bones experience immense pressure, which is almost 6 times the impact of the body weight of the runner. The joints are compelled to glide and move efficiently during this period of stress. If there is a single misstep, or the runner stumbles, an accident would be inevitable, and the runner’s joints will be affected badly.
Runners are actually afraid of osteoarthritis, which is very common in this profession. Also known as wear and tear arthritis, osteoarthritis is the degeneration of articular cartilage which usually absorbs shock and other disturbances and distributes the same to the other parts of the body in order to allow smoother movements. Running smoothly depends on the health of joints, bones, muscles and cartilages. If one is affected, the others will not function well. |