To fight against osteoarthritis of the knee, it would be essential to limit a sedentary lifestyle. The results of a study published in the medical journal Arthritis Care & Research of the American College of Rheumatology, reveal that 6000 steps per day (approximately 5 kilometers) would prevent osteoarthritis of the knee and the physical consequences of this disease.
Walking to limit the risk of osteoarthritis of the knee
Boston University scientists equipped 1,788 people with monitors at risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knee to assess their practice of walking. They analyzed the mobility of the volunteers two years later.
They found that people who took 6,000 steps per day limited the physical consequences of osteoarthritis of the knee. And that 1000 extra steps per day would reduce the risk of functional accidents by 16%.
“Walking is inexpensive and although the WHO recommends taking 10,000 steps a day, our study shows that only 6,000 steps are needed to see any benefit,” said Dr. Daniel White of Boston University. in charge of the study.
Gold osteoarthritis of the knee affects about 20-30% of people aged 60-70 and is the leading cause of chronic functional disability in developed countries. In France, nearly half of the 10 million people affected are under 60 years old. This inflammatory joint disease, which gradually destroys cartilage, is the leading cause of disability after 40 years, according to a recent survey by the French Association for the Fight against Rheumatism (Aflar). “We encourage people with or at risk of having osteoarthritis of the kneestart with 3,000 steps per day and gradually reach 6,000 steps per day to minimize the risk of later developing mobility difficulties “he explains.
Walking, not just for people at risk
To keep fit and maintain health, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends taking 10,000 steps per day. The benefits of physical activity are indeed scientifically proven. Regular sports practice can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by up to 39%, the risk of developing colorectal cancer by 26%, the risk of having a stroke by 25% and the risk of diabetes is 34%. Sedentary lifestyle is now the 4th risk factor for early mortality in the world after high blood pressure, smoking and diabetes.