Osteoarthritis May Increase Injury Risk for Individuals Who Engage in Sports

(Newswire.net — December 22, 2016) Orlando, FL — Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It impacts millions of people worldwide, especially in the United States. There are certain undesirable consequences of having this condition, and one is the risk of injuries.

Osteoarthritis may increase injury risk for individuals who engage in sports. It is undeniable that individuals who are more physically active such as athletes are more susceptible to injuries. While injuries could result from doing intense physical activities, having arthritis may also increase the risk of accidents.

Athletes and individuals who regularly engage in sporting activities are more likely to suffer from wear and tear in the joint cartilage, which may increase osteoarthritis risk. Having osteoarthritis, on the other hand, may also increase the risk of injuries.

Philip Conaghan, Professor of Musculoskeletal Medicine at Leeds University, reveals that osteoarthritis is generally perceived to be a normal part of the aging process. As people age, their joint cartilage may be more susceptible to wear and tear from the years of walking and doing other physical activities.

Professor Conaghan also revealed that osteoarthritis may develop after an injury. This is based on the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results he conducted with injured knees.

Individuals who have damaged cartilage are also believed to be five times more prone to having osteoarthritis. This condition causes pain and immobility. Individuals who suffer from this condition and engage in sports usually have more difficulties training and performing.

Pain and immobility caused by osteoarthritis typically impacts the mental and physical ability of sufferers to engage in sports. Thus, they are more likely to perform poorly and may be prone to injury.

There are those who use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other pain medications to help ease pain and improve their mobility. There are many who claim these pharmaceutical drugs have helped them improve their pain and overcome their physical limitations.

However, since the use of these medications may be associated with side effects, more and more athletes are turning to the use of safer alternatives such as glucosamine.

Glucosamine is a naturally-occurring substance in the body. As people age, the glucosamine levels in the body start to reduce. Glucosamine is thought to repair damaged cartilage and may even improve overall joint health.

Glucosamine is believed to be a safer alternative to pain medications since its use has not been linked with side effects. It may potentially strengthen joint health and may be helpful to individuals who engage in sports.

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