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Early life intervention may prevent knee OA later in life
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A recent narrative review of the association between childhood or early adulthood risk factors and the development of knee osteoarthritis showed osteoarthritis may be prevented later in life with early life intervention.
Researchers performed a manual and computerized search of databases for studies exploring the long-term effect of childhood or early adulthood risk factors on the markers of joint health that predispose individuals to osteoarthritis (OA) or joint symptoms. Due to a lack of studies available, the researchers conducted a narrative overview.
Results showed an independent relationship between high BMI or overweight status from childhood to adulthood and knee pain and OA in later life. Although researchers noted conflicting findings regarding the association between strenuous physical activity and knee structures in young adults, the studies included reported a favorable effect of moderate physical activity and fitness on knee structures. According to results, independent beneficial effects on knee structures were found with childhood physical activity and performance measures, whereas development of patellofemoral knee OA in adults older than 40 years was associated with anterior knee pain syndrome in adolescence. Researchers found weak evidence suggesting an association between OA in later life and childhood malalignment, socioeconomic status and physical abuse. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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