Many studies have proven the relationship between certain types of sport and arthritis. Recently, research has revealed that professional footballers are ten times more likely to develop osteoarthritis of the hip in later life than their peers, despite not having sustained notable hip injuries during their professional career.
Previous studies have also shown that professional sportsmen are at risk of developing arthritis at a considerably earlier age than the general public. A study published in 2000 showed the long-term impact of playing professional football, with almost half of the 284 players surveyed being diagnosed with osteoarthritis, on average, by the age of forty. However, there are preventative measures that can be taken but are often ignored.
GP and medical broadcaster Dr Rob Hicks comments: "Measures need to be taken now if the increased risk of osteoarthritis is to be reduced. Everyone involved in physical exercise and sport, whether professionally or as an amateur, must always protect their joints, through appropriate nutrition and responsible training regimes. It is important to maintain a healthy diet, which includes fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains and oily fish. Flexibility and strengthening exercises are also essential. Over-exertion of joints can increase the risk of problems later in later life."
There are more than 200 hundred different kinds of arthritis, with osteoarthritis being the most common. It is caused by damage to the cartilage of joints and can cause long-term pain, stiffness and swelling, which can lead to a significant lack of mobility and prevent people doing even the simplest of everyday activities. Arthritis and related conditions are amongst the most common causes of days off work in both men and women in the UK and carry a significant socio-economic cost.
Globally, osteoarthritis accounts for half of all chronic conditions in people aged 65 and over. However, although it is a condition commonly associated with the elderly, it can begin at any age and with varying degrees of severity. Researchers are investigating preventative measures, especially for people who lead particularly active lifestyles and therefore need to reduce the likelihood of developing arthritis in the future.
Speaking in the UK on behalf of People with Arthritis / Rheumatism in Europe (PARE), an umbrella network providing support for people with arthritis across Europe, Angela Donaldson comments: "Millions of people have visited their GP in the past year because of osteoarthritis and year by year this is on the increase. Repetitive activity can damage joints, which is why osteoarthritis is more common in some physically demanding sports such as professional football. Fortunately, if preventative measures are taken now, many young sportspeople can reduce their chances of developing this condition."
For further information on arthritis and access to the national and local patient support networks, please visit the World Arthritis Day website at www.worldarthritisday.org.uk.
About PARE
PARE is an umbrella network for Arthritis/Rheumatism International (ARi), International Organisation for Youth with Rheumatism (IOYR) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) Social Leagues. PARE works to address the quality for life for Europeans affected by arthritis/rheumatism. Its concerns range from access to treatment and services, to issues associated with access to buildings, transport, employment and research. For more information please visit www.paremanifesto.org.