Because its prevalence increases with increased age, osteoarthritis is the leading cause of activity limitation among older persons. Thus, regular, noncompetitive physical activity done in amounts and at intensities recommended for improving health does not appear harmful to joints that have no existing injury. It can be concluded that physical activity is critical for maintaining the health of joints, and it appears to be beneficial for controlling symptoms in persons with osteoarthritis. Furthermore, although there is no evidence that physical activity causes osteoarthritis, injuries that occurred as a result of competitive sports apparently do increase one's risk of developing osteoarthritis. Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mass and deterioration of the structure of bone tissue, which can lead to bone fragility and increased risk of bone fracture.
Physical activity can beneficially affect osteoporosis.
Physical activity seems to build greater bone mass in children and adolescents, and it seems to help maintain peak bone mass in adulthood. For post-menopausal women, physical activity may protect against the rapid decline in bone mass. Whereas estrogen replacement therapy has been shown to decrease bone loss after menopause, there is evidence that this effect is enhanced with physical activity. In conclusion, physical activity is important for weight control. By using energy and maintaining muscle mass, physical activity is helpful in avoiding weight gain and in losing weight.