Running marathons and the concern of its potential harm to our knees and hips have been debated topics for many years. A recent study, published in the Journal of Sports Medicine, might have put these concerns to rest. Surveying close to 4,000 marathon runners, the study provides substantial evidence that long-distance running does not lead to damage in the knees or hips, as commonly believed.
Contrary to conventional wisdom, the research found no connection between the likelihood of osteoarthritis in runners and their history related to running. Factors like the number of marathons they’ve completed, how long they’ve been running, their average weekly mileage, or their running pace, do not correlate with a heightened risk for the ailment. Alexa Duckworth-Briggs, a certified running coach, commented that this revelation doesn’t surprise those who have kept pace with the evolving scientific understanding of this subject. She further pointed out that the widely accepted view that long-distance running harms the knees and hips primarily originates from either outdated data or purely anecdotal evidence.
The study highlighted other risk factors that play a more prominent role in developing hip or knee arthritis. These include a person’s age, a high body mass index (BMI), any prior injuries or surgeries, and their family’s medical history. The research further revealed a minimal self-reported occurrence of hip or knee arthritis among those who run marathons recreationally. Significantly, it didn’t find any “dose-response” association between a person’s running history and their risk of arthritis. In simpler terms, increasing one’s running did not correspond with an escalating risk of the condition.
Matthew Hartwell, from the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Northwestern University in Illinois, expressed that these outcomes challenge the longstanding belief that running amplifies the chances of developing hip or knee arthritis.
This study is particularly notable because it surveyed a diverse group of non-elite runners, ranging from 18 to 83 years in age. Their running experience varied significantly. On average, the participants had been running for almost 15 years, covering approximately 28 miles every week. While a majority had only completed fewer than five marathons, some boasted of participating in more than 100 races.
In the past, research on this topic predominantly focused on elite marathon runners, limiting the generalizability of the findings. This broader study now emphasizes the positive side of running: when approached with care and gradually increased, it can enhance joint health. Seth Forman, a renowned athletics coach, believes that it’s crucial to shift the perception and not view running as harmful for the knees. Instead, he suggests seeing it as a means to ensure overall fitness and proper joint functionality.
Despite such evidence supporting running’s health benefits, many medical professionals still counsel their patients to either cut back on running or stop entirely. The authors of this study believe it’s high time for healthcare providers to revisit these guidelines and utilize this new data when discussing the pros and cons of running with their patients.
Other research has echoed similar sentiments. One particular study of marathoners who had run an average of 76 races concluded that the number of marathons did not influence the risk of arthritis. Another analysis indicated that running could reduce the risk of knee surgeries related to osteoarthritis by more than half.
Kevin Huffman, an osteopath and fitness coach, said that this study serves as an encouragement for those aiming to stay active. He believes that the study accentuates the importance of a healthy weight, proper management of prior injuries, and being cognizant of one’s family medical history as the primary determinants of arthritis risk. Ultimately, this research motivates individuals to explore the myriad physical and mental advantages of long-distance running without undue stress about its potential impact on joint health.
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