Every four years, the world comes together to watch the Olympics. For two weeks, we marvel at the athleticism and skill of the world’s best athletes as they compete for gold. However, what we don’t see is the years of training and sacrifices that these athletes have made to get to where they are.
And while the Olympics may be the highlight of their careers, it can also take a toll on their bodies. A new study has found that a quarter of former Olympians suffer from osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage. It can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research, looked at a total of 1,303 Olympians who competed in the Summer or Winter Olympics between 1896 and 2010. Of those, 28.5% reported having osteoarthritis.
The most common sites of osteoarthritis were the knee (16%), hip (11%), and shoulder (6%). Olympians who competed in sports that involved repetitive loading of the joints, such as running, were more likely to develop osteoarthritis.
Not surprisingly, the risk of developing osteoarthritis increased with age. However, even young athletes were not immune from the disease.
While the study did not look at the cause of osteoarthritis in Olympians, it is likely that the wear and tear from years of training and competing takes its toll on the joint.
This study highlights the importance of taking care of your joints, especially if you are an athlete. If you are experiencing pain or stiffness in your joints, be sure to see a doctor.
A new study has found that a quarter of all former Olympians suffer from osteoarthritis.
The research, which was undertaken by a team at the University of British Columbia, looked at a sample of 984 athletes who took part in the Olympic Games between 1896 and 1936.
Of those surveyed, 24% reported having osteoarthritis, with the most common site being the hip.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of the joints, and is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones.
Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
The study’s authors say that the findings highlight the need for better screening and treatment of athletes for the condition.
They also point to the need for more research into the causes of osteoarthritis, in order to develop preventive strategies.
The study was published in the journal PLOS ONE.
