From the Guidelines
Overexercise and Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)
Yes, overexercise can contribute to degenerative joint disease (DJD) as it can lead to excessive wear and tear on the joints, particularly weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and ankles 1.
Key Factors and Management
The relationship between overexercise and DJD is complex, and management typically involves a multimodal approach including:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen 400-800mg every 8 hours or acetaminophen 650-1000mg every 4-6 hours to reduce pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy to improve joint mobility and strength
- Activity modification to reduce stress on affected joints In severe cases, intra-articular injections of corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone 20-40mg, or hyaluronic acid derivatives, such as sodium hyaluronate 20mg, may be considered to reduce inflammation and promote joint lubrication 1.
Important Considerations
It's essential to note that while exercise is a crucial component of maintaining joint health, overexercise can have detrimental effects, and a balanced approach to physical activity is necessary to minimize the risk of DJD 1. Some key points to consider when exercising to prevent or manage DJD include:
- Proper technique to avoid putting unnecessary stress on joints
- Gradual progression of exercise intensity and duration to allow for adaptation
- Listening to the body and resting when experiencing pain or discomfort
- Incorporating low-impact activities such as cycling or swimming to reduce joint stress By adopting a balanced and informed approach to exercise, individuals can reduce their risk of developing DJD and maintain healthy, functional joints throughout their lives 1.