Does running cause knee osteoarthritis?

A question we often hear from our patients, and perhaps something you have wondered yourself, is whether running can cause knee osteoarthritis? Well I’ve got great news for the runners out there, according to evidence, it is in fact a myth that running is a risk factor for the development and progression of knee osteoarthritis!

In 2021, the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM) published an infographic that highlights what the evidence shows regarding running and knee osteoarthritis. They found:

• Recreational running is not harmful for your knee joints.
• Participation in running may have a protective effect against the development of knee and hip osteoarthritis.
• Higher rates of knee and hip osteoarthritis have been reported in non-runners and runners exposed to sustained elite level loading.

Not only does running have a protective effect against the development of knee and hip osteoarthritis but it also has many other benefits that come with physical activity! These include improving sleep, managing stress, helping to maintain a healthy weight and improving overall quality of life. Other health benefits of physical activity include reducing the risk of developing type II diabetes by 40%, cardiovascular disease by 35%, plus the risk of falls and depression by 30%. It also reduces the risk of joint and back pain by 25% and reduces the risk of certain cancers by 20%. So, all in all, it sounds like running is a great activity to participate in!

What if I already have knee osteoarthritis? Is it safe for me to run?

YES! It is safe to continue to run even if you have knee osteoarthritis, you just might find you need to adjust how frequently you run to allow adequate time of recovery between runs. Not only is it safe to run if you already have knee osteoarthritis but you will also receive the other benefits of physical activity listed above.

In summary, if running is an activity that you enjoy then it is safe and beneficial to do so! If your knee pain is impacting your running and you’re not sure what to do, then come in and see one of our specialist MSK Physiotherapists. We’ll be able to help you get back on track.

Get in touch with our friendly team on 01306 640149 to book your consultation.