Racket Sports May Make Knee Arthritis Worse

Physical activity is an important component in weight loss, but some exercises may not be preferable for people who are overweight. A recent study suggests racket sports like tennis and racquetball can exacerbate knee joint degeneration in overweight individuals with arthritis.

Study Shows Racket Sports Can Worsen Arthritis

Researchers used high-powered MRI to examine the rate of knee degeneration in 415 obese or overweight patients. The study participants recorded their involvement in several types of exercise, including swimming, elliptical trainer, cycling, jogging, ball sports and racket sports.

The patients who preferred the elliptical trainer experienced the least knee degeneration, according to MRI results. Interestingly, patients who participated in racket sports experienced significantly more knee degeneration than patients who preferred running and jogging.

Silvia Schirò, MD, from the University of Parma in Parma, Italy, and the University of California San Francisco, led the research. “In our study, progression of overall knee joint degeneration was consistently higher in overweight and/or obese patients engaging in racket sports,” Schiro stated. “We also found that workouts using an elliptical trainer were associated with reduced progression of overall knee joint and cartilage defects. Moreover, our findings showed that when comparing different low impact activities with each other, such as bicycling, elliptical trainer and swimming, the elliptical trainer was associated with the lowest increase in [knee degeneration] over 48 months.”

According to Schiro, the side-to-side movements of racket sports impart large lateral force at the foot. People who are obese or overweight may experience joint mechanics impairment, which makes them more susceptible to stress on the meniscus, the protective cushion on the knee cartilage.

Knee Arthritis Exercises to Avoid

Obesity is the most modifiable risk factor when it comes to knee osteoarthritis. Exercise is vital for weight loss, but it is essential to engage in activities that do not cause knee pain or compromise the knee joint.

Studies show joint injuries from high-impact sports can worsen osteoarthritis. Knee joint degeneration depends on multiple factors, but specific exercises are generally associated with causing strain to the knees:

• Activities that require repetitive jumping, such as basketball or jumping rope
• Long-distance running
• High-impact calisthenics

Activities that tend to be gentler on the knees include Pilates, walking and cycling. Resistance training with weights can also be beneficial to strengthen the knee. To reduce joint strain, consider wearing a knee brace. Talk with your doctor before beginning any new exercise or weight-loss program (Healthline).

Schedule a Total Joint Arthroplasty Consultation

Are you experiencing chronic knee or hip pain? Take a proactive step toward better health and schedule a consultation with an expert. Our nationwide network of physicians specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis, and they are accepting new patients. Your doctor can recommend a treatment plan that includes safe exercises and a healthy diet, or total joint arthroplasty (total joint replacement) if necessary.

Click here to see a list of centers and their contact information.

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