What is knee arthritis?
Arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation and stiffness in ones joints. There different types of arthritis. The one most commonly found in the knee is knee osteoarthritis. This is degenerative (progressive deterioration) disease where the cartilage in the knee wears away, exposing vital ligaments, skin and muscle to bone. It is a hard tissue injury that can is caused by indirect forces. Overuse is a main contributor to the development of knee arthritis. Five factors that can result in one being prone to knee arthritis are:
1. Age - as one gets older, their cartilage is used more and thus wears down
2. Weight - one's weight affects the load but on their knee. Therefore, if the knee is baring too much weight then deterioration will occur
3. Previous knee joint injuries - if one has had previous injuries to their knee joint, then they are more prone to developing knee arthritis
4. Genetics - arthritis can occur based on genetics, so if you have a family member that has had arthritis in the knee, then you are more prone to developing it
5. Sports and jobs with repeated load on knee - when one is placed in situations, were repeated heavy loads are placed on the knee, due to sport or work, then they are at risk of developing knee arthritis
1. Age - as one gets older, their cartilage is used more and thus wears down
2. Weight - one's weight affects the load but on their knee. Therefore, if the knee is baring too much weight then deterioration will occur
3. Previous knee joint injuries - if one has had previous injuries to their knee joint, then they are more prone to developing knee arthritis
4. Genetics - arthritis can occur based on genetics, so if you have a family member that has had arthritis in the knee, then you are more prone to developing it
5. Sports and jobs with repeated load on knee - when one is placed in situations, were repeated heavy loads are placed on the knee, due to sport or work, then they are at risk of developing knee arthritis
How does it affect softball players?
Players will knee arthritis need to be aware that this injury can reduce their range of motion and the impact that can be placed on the knee. Softball is a sport where the knees are very essential to optimum performance. Bending down to pick up a ball, batting and even running requires strength in the knees. If one is playing catcher, the knees will be used frequently and strenuously. Caution and care need to be taken particularly if one is playing this position. Medical advice should be sought as to what the individual can do in the game and what they are not recommended to do.