Severe occupational strain increases the risk of hip osteoarthritis

People who in the course of their work put long-term physical strain on their bodies have an increased risk of developing hip osteoarthritis, says new research from Germany. And the risk increases with more exposure.

Men’s risk of hip osteoarthritis is doubled by long-term lifting of heavy loads, and rises higher still if the work also involves heavy manual labour or long periods of walking or standing. Not enough data is available to make it possible to estimate the risk in women.

In the light of their findings the authors suggest:

• Reducing physical strain should be a priority;
• Loads of 20kg or more should not be lifted without mechanical assistance;
• Screening for hip osteoarthritis should take place after 15 to 20 years in the job at the very latest.

Click here to read the original findings.

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