When the cartilage that cushions a joint breaks down, the bones cannot move gently against each other. Pain, swelling and stiffness that occur when bone rubs against bone is called osteoarthritis. Though the exact cause hasn't been determined, known risk factors include obesity, joint injuries and sports or work that stresses the joints. According to PubMed Health osteoarthritis usually appears in middle age, with nearly everyone experiencing symptoms of osteoarthritis by age 70.
Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Symptoms of pain, swelling, stiffness and a cracking sound in the joints may increase after exercise or first thing in the morning. According to PubMed Health, within 30 minutes, morning stiffness usually stops. Moving the joints helps to relieve stiffness, though activity throughout the day may also contribute to symptoms.
Jogging and Osteoarthritis
Jogging helps build muscle to hold the bones in place during movement, improves flexibility and helps with maintaining a healthy body weight. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, joints need motion to stay healthy, and remaining inactive for long periods may cause joint stiffness and loss of surrounding muscle.
Pain While Jogging
Additional pain during jogging can be reduced by over-the-counter pain relief medications. PubMed Health says using acetaminophen or other pain relievers including aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen before exercising is OK as long as you don't overdo the exercise.
Jogging and Osteoarthritis Risks
Jogging provides aerobic exercise and improves muscle strength and moves stiff joints. In the April 2007 issue of "Health News," a study in older adults indicated jogging, walking and moderate activity do not increase the risk for osteoarthritis. But the study's author, Dr. David Felton, also pointed out exercise did not decrease the risk for osteoarthritis either.
Considerations
Osteoarthritis cannot be cured and may reduce the joint's range of motion and affect the ability to perform daily activities like chores and self-care. Osteoarthritis affects everyone differently, with a range from limited mobility from pain and stiffness to an active lifestyle that may include jogging. According to "Health News," exercise including jogging enhances weight loss and helps to maintain a healthy body weight along with helping to reduce stiffness and pain.
References
- PubMed Health: Osteoarthritis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Osteoarthritis -- Lifestyle Changes
- "Health News"; Exercise Doesn't Cause Knee OA: It's OK to Start or Continue Exercising to Reduce Your Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis; April 2007
