Running does not cause knee arthritis

Written by Daniel O’Grady, Knee Specialist Physio and Running Coach

Many runners worry that their favorite activity might lead to knee osteoarthritis (OA), but research suggests otherwise.

In fact, runners do not have a higher prevalence of knee OA compared to non-runners.

Let's explore why running might actually help your knees stay healthy.

The Misunderstood Relationship Between Running and Knee OA

1. Cumulative Load vs. Peak Load:

   • Cumulative Load: The total stress your knees experience over time is more important for OA risk than the peak load during a single stride. Surprisingly, running has a low cumulative load compared to walking the same distance because of the shorter ground contact time and longer stride length.

   • Peak Load: While running involves higher peak loads, the overall stress on knee cartilage is managed better in runners due to their conditioned cartilage.

2. Cartilage Conditioning:

   • Adaptation: Regular running conditions knee cartilage to handle the mechanical stresses of running. This means the cartilage becomes stronger and more resilient over time.

   • Mechanisms: Running increases the thickness and glycosaminoglycan content of knee cartilage, which helps in shock absorption and lubrication, making it more resistant to wear and tear.

3. Misconceptions About Joint Loading:

   • High Peak Loads: Although peak knee joint loads in running are high, they do not necessarily lead to OA because the body adapts to these loads.

   • Dynamic Loading: The dynamic nature of running loads, with high rates of loading and unloading, is less harmful to cartilage compared to static loads, which are common in occupations requiring long periods of standing.

Key Takeaways

• Low Risk for Runners: Recreational runners have a low risk of developing knee OA. Running might even protect against OA by conditioning the cartilage and keeping it healthy.

• Stay Active: Regular, moderate running can be beneficial for your knee health. It's important to listen to your body and avoid excessive training volumes to prevent injuries.

By understanding these insights, runners can feel more confident that their passion for running is not only safe but also potentially beneficial for their knee health.

Keep running smart, and your knees will thank you!

If you’d like help on your journey getting back to running with knee pain or OA - join Physio Dan at The Resilient Knee Project - an innovative and unique program that gets you back to running and doing what you love - let’s get started today!

Journal link

Joint Loading in Runners Does Not Initiate Knee Osteoarthritis

Ross H. Miller

Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2017;45(2):87-95

Can You Run with Knee OA?

Can You Run with Knee OA?

Here's What You Need to Know!

So you’ve just been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis (OA)…

There may be many questions running through your head

• What exactly is knee osteoarthritis (OA), and how did I get it?

• What are the best treatment options for managing knee OA?

• Will I need surgery at some point, or are there other alternatives?

• Can I use knee OA as an excuse to skip leg day at the gym forever?

• Can I blame knee OA for my newfound ability to predict the weather with my knees?

But if you’re like me, your most important concern will be:

“Can I still lace up my running shoes and hit the pavement?”

Well, you're not alone!

Many folks in your shoes (pun intended) are curious about the same thing.

Let's dive in and explore whether running with knee OA is a good idea, and how it might even help ease your knee pain.

Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis (OA):

First off, let's talk about knee OA.

The old view of OA is that it a result of wear and tear and inevitable joint degeneration.

This is known as the biomedical model and it offers an overly simplistic view that OA happens when the cartilage in your knee joint starts to wear down, causing pain, stiffness, and all-around discomfort.

It's not exactly an inspiring way to view the problem.

New view of OA:

Thankfully some very smart researchers, clinicians and doctors have come together to provide an updated explanation for knee OA and this involves taking a broader view of knee OA as an integrated whole body problem - that involves inflammation, metabolic health, immune system, diet, nutrition and even things like our beliefs and knowledge.

“Clinical outcomes in OA are influenced by multiple factors, including pain sensitization, psychological distress, muscle strength, BMI, inflammation, disease severity, and comorbidities,39 which may ultimately limit the maximum improvement in pain and function”.https://acrjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/acr.25313

Essentially we have updated our model from a simple mechanical system (body is a machine that needs fixing) to seeing the body as an ecosystem (capable of positive adaptive and growth given the optimal conditions) that is capable of regenerating given the optimal environmental conditions.

This new approach is no shortage of a revolution and paradigm shift in how we see the body and it’s potential for healing.

It opens the door to many treatment options that were previously not even considered until very recently.

Benefits of Running with Knee OA:

Believe it or not, running can actually have some perks for folks with knee OA:

1. Improved Joint Function: Running can help keep your knee joints flexible and moving smoothly, which is super important when you've got OA.

2. Strengthening Muscles: When you run, you're not just working out your legs – you're also giving those supporting muscles around your knees a good workout. It's like building a sturdy support system for your knees!

3. Weight Management: Running is a great way to burn calories and keep your weight in check. And when you're carrying around less weight, there's less stress on your knee joints.

4. Mood Boost: Ever heard of a runner's high? It's a real thing! Running releases feel-good hormones in your brain, which can help lift your mood and ease stress – definitely a win-win!

Considerations for Running with Knee OA:

Before you lace up those shoes and hit the pavement, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Talk to a Pro: It's always a good idea to chat with a healthcare pro before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you've got knee OA. They can give you the lowdown on whether running is safe for you.

2. Take It Slow: Start with a gentle jog or brisk walk, and gradually build up your speed and distance over time. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a runner!

3. Shoe Game Strong: Invest in a good pair of running shoes with plenty of cushioning and support. Your knees will thank you!

4. Watch Your Form: Pay attention to your running technique – aim for a mid-foot strike, keep your posture upright, and try to land softly to reduce impact on your knees.

5. Mix It Up: Running is great, but it's not the only game in town! Mix in some strength training and flexibility exercises to give your knees a well-rounded workout.

Digital Health Adelaide - The Resilient Knee Project

"Revolutionizing knee pain management through the power of running"

The Resilient Knee Project has a goal of inspiring people around the world to restore the health of their knees through a specialized knee program with a focus on building physical capacity through running.

Our graduates are able to get back to running and feel like themselves again, without relying on medication or surgery.

A groundbreaking new treatment for persistent knee pain and early arthritis, called The Resilient Knee Project has been developed by a leading physiotherapist and running coach Daniel O’Grady.

The treatment focuses on the use of running as a core therapy to improve knee health and reduce pain and inflammation.

The new program is based on the latest research and clinical evidence, which suggests that running can be an effective and safe way to improve knee function and reduce the risk of future knee problems.

The program includes a customized running program, with a gradual and progressive increase in mileage, as well as specific exercises and techniques to improve knee stability and strength.

"We are excited to offer this innovative and effective treatment to our patients," said Daniel O’Grady, lead physical therapist at The Resilient Knee Project. "Running has long been considered a high-impact activity that can be harmful to the knees, but our program has shown that with proper training and technique, it can actually be a beneficial form of therapy for individuals with persistent knee pain and early arthritis."

The Resilient Knee Project has already helped numerous patients improve their knee health and reduce their pain, and the clinic is now accepting new patients through in person assessment or digital online programs from anywhere in the world.

Learn more about Daniel here

NEWS:

Opportunity - Seeking Partnership

Join Our Team: Seeking Partner, Digital Creator and Project Manager for Exciting Healthcare Collaboration

Are you a talented digital creator and experienced project manager looking for a rewarding opportunity in the healthcare sector?

We invite you to join our team as we embark on an innovative collaboration aimed at revolutionizing patient care.

As the clinical lead of this project, I am seeking a passionate and skilled digital creator and project manager to partner with me in developing a groundbreaking solution. Together, we will create an app that empowers individuals with knee-related concerns to optimize their knee health and overall well-being.

This collaborative venture will require your expertise in digital content creation, app development, and project management. Your ability to translate clinical insights into user-friendly and engaging digital experiences will be invaluable in shaping the future of knee wellness.

If you are enthusiastic about merging healthcare and technology, and are driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in people's lives, we would love to hear from you. Join our team and help us transform knee care, empowering individuals to take control of their knee health journey.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of an exciting and dynamic project that will reshape the way we approach knee health and patient care.

We look forward to welcoming you to our team and embarking on this rewarding collaboration.

Please contact Daniel O’Grady if you’re interested in discussing this role further.

0432 898 597

dan@kinfolkwellness.com.au

About The Resilient Knee Project

The Resilient Knee Project

NEWS:

Opportunity - Seeking Partnership

Join Our Team: Seeking Partner, Digital Creator and Project Manager for Exciting Healthcare Collaboration

Are you a talented digital creator and experienced project manager looking for a rewarding opportunity in the healthcare sector?

We invite you to join our team as we embark on an innovative collaboration aimed at revolutionizing patient care.

As the clinical lead of this project, I am seeking a passionate and skilled digital creator and project manager to partner with me in developing a groundbreaking solution. Together, we will create an app that empowers individuals with knee-related concerns to optimize their knee health and overall well-being.

This collaborative venture will require your expertise in digital content creation, app development, and project management. Your ability to translate clinical insights into user-friendly and engaging digital experiences will be invaluable in shaping the future of knee wellness.

If you are enthusiastic about merging healthcare and technology, and are driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in people's lives, we would love to hear from you. Join our team and help us transform knee care, empowering individuals to take control of their knee health journey.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of an exciting and dynamic project that will reshape the way we approach knee health and patient care.

We look forward to welcoming you to our team and embarking on this rewarding collaboration.

Please contact Daniel O’Grady if you’re interested in discussing this role further.

0432 898 597

dan@kinfolkwellness.com.au

About The Resilient Knee Project

"Revolutionizing knee pain management through the power of running"

The Resilient Knee Project has a goal of inspiring people around the world to restore the health of their knees through a specialized knee program with a focus on building physical capacity through running.

Our graduates are able to get back to running and feel like themselves again, without relying on medication or surgery.

A groundbreaking new treatment for persistent knee pain and early arthritis, called The Resilient Knee Project has been developed by a leading physiotherapist and running coach Daniel O’Grady.

The treatment focuses on the use of running as a core therapy to improve knee health and reduce pain and inflammation.

The new program is based on the latest research and clinical evidence, which suggests that running can be an effective and safe way to improve knee function and reduce the risk of future knee problems.

The program includes a customized running program, with a gradual and progressive increase in mileage, as well as specific exercises and techniques to improve knee stability and strength.

"We are excited to offer this innovative and effective treatment to our patients," said Daniel O’Grady, lead physical therapist at The Resilient Knee Project. "Running has long been considered a high-impact activity that can be harmful to the knees, but our program has shown that with proper training and technique, it can actually be a beneficial form of therapy for individuals with persistent knee pain and early arthritis."

The Resilient Knee Project has already helped numerous patients improve their knee health and reduce their pain, and the clinic is now accepting new patients through in person assessment or digital online programs from anywhere in the world.

Pain on Inside of Knee? Get To Know Your VMO

The Resilient Knee Project is an innovative solution for people with chronic knee pain that empowers individuals to self-manage their pain and most importantly, get them back to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of running.

Founded by Daniel O’Grady, dedicated professional with first hand experience of overcoming knee pain and running the NYC Marathon, the project aims to be a world leader in restoring people’s confidence in their knees and get back to doing what they love.

Is The Resilient Knee Program right for you?

Take the free quiz here

Get to your know your VMO

If you’ve ever had a nagging pain on the inside of your knee or a knee that seems to buckle or give way, there is a fair chance you’ve had some dysfunction in the VMO muscle.

VMO dysfunction is very common in runners, hikers, cyclists, athletes involved in jumping sports and after any knee injury.

In this short blog, we’ll find out more about how issues develop in the VMO and what you can do to help.

WHAT IS THE VMO MUSCLE?

VMO stands for Vastus Medialis Oblique and this is part of the quads, running along the inside of the thigh, with the bulk of the muscle sitting directly above the inside of the knee.

FUNCTION:

The role of the VMO is to assist with extending your knee and arguably the most responsible muscle for knee stability, as it helps control the alignment of the knee-cap.

When the VMO isn’t functionally optimally, the knee cap tends to shift slightly out of place during movements such as squats and lunges, causing pain and inflammation behind the knee-cap.

SYMPTOMS:

When the quads get overloaded (suddenly or over time), tightness in the muscle fibres (called trigger points) can refer a toothache-like pain deep in the knee joint (see Figure 1 below).

This pain from the overloaded VMO muscle can often be confused with joint pain such osteo-arthritis or a meniscus tear, as the location and type of pain are often similar.

Figure 1

The initial knee pain then may disappear after a few weeks, only to be replaced by a sudden weakness in the knee (a condition called “buckling knee”) that causes a person to unexpectedly fall while walking.

HOW THE VMO BECOMES OVERLOADED:

The VMO can be activated as a protective response to knee injury such as to the ligaments, meniscus or post-surgery.

The VMO is also commonly overloaded with repeated use in the following situations:

• suddenly increasing your volume of running or cycling (running places around 6 x body weight through the quads)

• a new (or sudden increase) in an exercise program involving repetitive squats, lunges, leg extensions or wall sits

• jumping sports e.g. basketball

• cycling - poor bike fit

• walking downhill or stairs

• being over-zealous in rehabbing the VMO - too much strengthening too soon

TREATMENT:

Physiotherapy assessment will involve a comprehensive movement assessment to determine the cause of your VMO issue.

“Short term treatment such as soft tissue massage and dry needling is very helpful, while long term building capacity in the quads, glutes and core is critical to prevent a relapse.

TRIGGER POINT DRY NEEDLING:

Tightness and contraction of the VMO responds very well to dry needling, which can de-activate the trigger points (knots in the muscle).

The benefit of dry needling is that it can reach the deep fibers of the muscle and lead to a quicker resolution of symptoms. 

Treatment of the VMO is generally very responsive to treatment, provided the contributing factors are addressed.

SELF-CARE TIPS:

• apply heat to the VMO muscle 10 minutes each day to increase blood flow and reduce tension

• if you’re a runner or hiker, avoid the hills (in the short-term)

• ensure your shoes are not overly worn

• when running - avoid over-striding, ensure proper warm up and cool down and take walking breaks frequently to avoid overloading the VMO

• avoid prolonged kneeling on the floor e.g. gardening, washing floors - use a low bench or stool to sit on instead

• foam roll the VMO daily for a few minutes (see below). It’s also a good idea to roll out the adductors which are also commonly tight
  

Foam Roller for the VMO:

Foam rolling the inner quad and adductor - fun times!

Let’s get you back to doing what you love…

If you’d like to get your knee on the fast track straight away, please use the button below to schedule an appointment:

Dan O'Grady is a results driven qualified Physiotherapist and member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association.  Dan has a special interest in treating knee pain.  He has been working in private practice for 15 years. He is passionate about helping people to move better, feel better and get back to doing what they love.

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