Longitudinal Effect of Vigorous Physical Activity on Patella Cartilage Morphology in People Without Clinical Knee Disease

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: There are few data concerning possible long-term effects of physical activity on cartilage change in the patellofemoral compartment. We examined the effect of participation in vigorous physical activity on changes to patella cartilage over 2 years. METHODS: A total of 297 healthy adults ages 50-79 years with no history of knee injury or symptoms were recruited from an existing study. Physical activity data were obtained by questionnaire at baseline (2003-2004). Patella cartilage volume and defects were determined by magnetic resonance imaging at baseline (2003-2004) and followup (2006-2007). RESULTS: Participation in vigorous physical activity at baseline was associated with a red..