Long-distance running history not linked to increased arthritis risk: Marathon survey

One of the most beneficial cardiovascular exercises is Long-distance running. It is popular and has well-described health benefits.

Long-distance running improves heart health and is also involved in managing and improving obesity, diabetes, and mental illness. However, the impact of this activity on joint health in recreational runners still needs to be more conclusive.

Matthew James Hartwell from the McGaw Medical Department of Northwestern University examined the cumulative effect of long-distance running and the presence of osteoarthritis (hip and knee).

The study summary includes the following:

• A survey was distributed to all participants of mean age of 43.9 years who were registered for the 2019 or 2021 Chicago marathon.
• There was a total of 37,917 participants.
• The information collected was runner demographics and assessed for hip/knee pain, osteoarthritis and histories, including that of family, surgery and running related.
• The running history provided information related to the number of marathons running, years running, average running pace, and average weekly mileage.
• Researchers identified the overall prevalence of osteoarthritis.
• Three thousand eight hundred four participants completed the survey.
• The participants completed, on average, 9.5 marathons and ran an average of 27.9 miles per week.
• These participants have been running for 14.7 years (mean).
• 36.4 %, including 1383 participants, reported hip and knee pain over the prior year.
• The prevalence of hip and knee arthritis was 7.3%, with 277 participants.
• The risk factors of osteoarthritis were hip/knee injuries, surgery, ageing, family history, and BMI.
• A cumulative number of years running, marathons completed, weekly mileage, and mean running pace were not significant predictors for arthritis.
• Most runners, constituting 94.2 %, planned to run another marathon.
• 24.2% of all participants were recommended to reduce the running volume or stop running altogether by the physician.

The team discussed that this is the largest surveyed group of marathon runners. History (family, injury, surgery), ageing and BMI are the most significant risk factors for developing hip or knee arthritis.

They reported no association between cumulative running history and arthritis risk.

The team pointed out, "Healthcare providers should consider these results before advising their patients to reduce or eliminate running as a form of exercise to reduce arthritic risk.”

Further reading:

https://index.mirasmart.com/AAOS2023/PDFfiles/AAOS2023-004582.PDF