Light Exercise Best to Prevent Knee OA
FROM THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE RADIOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF NORTH AMERICA
Differences in cartilage health were not found in any of the three exercise groups in the control cohort. However, knee-bending activities were associated with higher T2 values in both the at-risk and control cohorts. In the at-risk cohort, those who engaged in frequent knee-bending activities had significantly higher T2 values in all compartments than those who did not (44.7 vs. 43.2) and a significantly higher WORMS score, indicating visible signs of cartilage degeneration. In the normal cohort, knee-bending activities were associated with higher T2 values in the medial femur and the medial tibia (49.9 vs. 47.0 and 35.4 vs. 32.5, respectively) with a trend toward significance in the overall average in all compartments.
"Knee-bending activity may accelerate cartilage degeneration in all individuals, but potentially to a greater degree in subjects already at risk for knee osteoarthritis," Ms. Hovis said.
The researchers plan to collect longitudinal data at 2 and 4 years and are finishing an analysis of data on strength training.
Dr. Link disclosed that he has received research support from Merck & Co. Inc.
