Former male elite athletes have a higher rate of hip and knee osteoarthritis and arthroplasty than previously expected, according to an article published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine.
Researchers examined the prevalence of osteoarthritis and arthroplasty in 709 former male elite athletes. The median age of participants was 70 years old, and the average time since retirement from professional sports was 35 years. The former elite athletes were compared with 1,268 patients in a control group.
The risk of arthroplasty and arthritis was higher for former male elite athletes in both the hip and knee joint. The risk of hip osteoarthritis was doubled and hip arthroplasty 2.5 times higher than in the control group.
The study also associated knee injury with a higher potential for knee osteoarthritis.
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The risk of arthroplasty and arthritis was higher for former male elite athletes in both the hip and knee joint. The risk of hip osteoarthritis was doubled and hip arthroplasty 2.5 times higher than in the control group.
The study also associated knee injury with a higher potential for knee osteoarthritis.
Related Articles on Sports Medicine:
Dr. James Andrews Performs Elbow Surgery on Tigers Pitcher Al Alburquerqe
12 Sports Medicine Physicians on the Move
NBA Applies New Concussion Policy