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Is running bad for your knees or is it protective? What does the research show?


Published on 2025-01-19 08:23:11 - MSN
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  • On one hand, you hear people say that running can be bad for your knees over time. On the other hand, you hear that running strengthens your joints. Which is it? The post Is running bad for your knees or is it protective?

The article from MSN discusses the long-standing debate on whether running is detrimental or beneficial to knee health. Contrary to the common belief that running might wear down knee cartilage and lead to osteoarthritis, recent research suggests that running could actually be protective for the knees. Studies, including a notable one from 2017 in the *American Journal of Health Promotion*, indicate that runners might have less knee pain and a lower incidence of osteoarthritis compared to non-runners. This protective effect is attributed to several factors: running can strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve bone density, and enhance joint lubrication. However, the article also highlights that individual factors like running technique, training volume, and pre-existing conditions play significant roles in determining the impact on knee health. It emphasizes the importance of moderation, proper form, and listening to one's body to prevent injuries. Overall, while running isn't universally harmful to knees, how one runs and manages their running regimen is crucial for maintaining knee health.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/diseases-and-conditions/is-running-bad-for-your-knees-or-is-it-protective-what-does-the-research-show/ar-AA1xsKEA ]
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