Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition where the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

While age is a significant risk factor for osteoarthritis, recent research has shown that frequent walking can also double the risk of developing this condition.

Background

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in promoting physical activity as a means of reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible forms of physical activity and is often recommended as a way to stay healthy. However, recent studies have shown that too much walking can also cause damage to the joints, specifically the knee joints.

The Study

A study published in the journal Arthritis Care & Research conducted over a period of six years found that those who walked more than 6,000 steps per day had twice the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee joint compared to those who walked less than 3,000 steps per day.

Why Does Walking Increase the Risk of Osteoarthritis?

Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain why walking can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. One of the main reasons is that walking places a considerable load on the knee joints.

With each stride, the knee joint must bear the weight of the body, which can cause wear and tear on the joint over time.

Another reason why walking can increase the risk of osteoarthritis is that it causes repetitive motion of the joints. This repetitive motion can wear down the cartilage and lead to the development of osteoarthritis over time.

Other Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis

While walking is a risk factor for osteoarthritis, it is important to note that other factors can also increase the risk of developing this condition.

Age, gender, and family history are all significant risk factors, as well as obesity and previous injuries to the joint.

Preventing Osteoarthritis

While there is no surefire way to prevent osteoarthritis, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding injuries to the joints can all help reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis. You should also ensure that you are wearing appropriate footwear when walking or engaging in other physical activities.

Treating Osteoarthritis

If you have already been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, there are several treatments that can help manage your symptoms. These include medications, physical therapy, and joint replacement surgery in severe cases.

Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.