Nearly three times as many women are treated for degenerative bone disease than men, but in younger adults, men are diagnosed and treated for the condition more often than young women, according to the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability. Many factors play into the development of degenerative bone disease, or osteoarthritis, including exercise and physical activity.
How It Starts
The condition develops when cartilage between bones wears away and the bones start to rub directly together. Bone spurs eventually develop in the area and nearby tendons, ligaments and muscles become weak. While heredity plays a significant role in the development of osteoarthritis, exercises and sports that include squats, running and significant wear on the joints can lead to the condition in men.
Contributing Factors
According to the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability, younger men typically develop degenerative bone disease around their knees because of the nature of many male sports and physical regiments. Older men often develop the condition if they've broken a bone in the past or are overweight, which places excessive amounts of pressure on weakened joints. Men usually will develop osteoarthritis in their knees, while the disease tends to strike women more often in their feet and hands.
Prevention
Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent degenerative bone disease. Men with a family history of the condition should exercise and maintain a healthy diet to keep their weight in check to prevent the onset of the joint disease. Developing the muscles around your joints also can help prevent worsening of the condition, according to MedlinePlus, an online resource of the National Institutes of Health. Strong quadriceps, for example, take some of the pressure off weak knees and may forestall the onset of damage to the knee joints. Long-term exposure to strenuous sports that place significant pressure on the joints also increases the risk of degenerative bone disease in men.
Effects on Movement
Once the degeneration of cartilage begins, it becomes increasingly more difficult for men to exercise. Joint pain and stiffness interfere with regular workouts. Inflammation occurs, cutting workout time. Range of motion deteriorates, limiting the kinds of exercises you can perform.
Exercise to Combat Disability
To combat the eventual disability you may undergo because of deteriorating joints, engage in regular exercise. Aerobic exercise is vital for weight maintenance and heart health. Low-impact aerobics are the most suitable for men with knee pain. Swimming, rowing and cycling are suitable exercises for men with knee osteoarthritis. Isometric exercises that hold the muscle in place are best for keeping pressure off joints and building surrounding muscles. Flexibility exercises that include passive stretching are key to keeping you active.
