Exercise is beneficial for overall physical health and psychological well-being. However, there is a perception that exercise is potentially harmful to joints, in particular those of the lower extremities.
There is no good evidence supporting a harmful effect of regular exercise on normal joints, according to a review of studies.
Researchers reviewed existing studies on the relationship between regular exercise and osteoarthritis (OA) and concluded that in the absence of existing joint injury there is no increased risk of OA from exercise.
(Eurekalert.com 1/27/09)
