Weightlifting and Osteoarthritis

[Guest guest]

I've done some fairly extensive research in medical journals and online

on the topic of athletics and osteoarthritis--weightlifting in particular.

There seems to be a good deal of uncertainty and debate as to whether

intense weightlifting (such as OL and powerlifting) increases one's risk of

osteoarthritis or other joint problems. I've had difficulty finding good

research on the topic. I'm wondering if anyone has insights or information

on the topic.

[in our archives you should find references which show that bone density

is far higher among lifters than the general population. One of those studies

showed that a world champion powerlifter had the highest bone density yet

measured medically. In my " Supertraining " and " Facts & Fallacies of Fitness "

books I cite the work of various scientists who have shown that osteoporosis

and osteoarthritis tends to be lower among those who have regular impact

loading on their joints (Swanepoel et al). In other words, heavy loading

and even impact loading seems to diminish the incidence of the injuries

and joint deterioration that you mention. Mel Siff]

Pesavento

Aurora, IL USA

* Don't forget to sign all letters with full name

and city if you wish them to be published