Running and other high-impact exercises were once thought to be the major cause of arthritis. We now know that’s not completely true.
In fact, it may be the lack of physical exercise that can lead to worsening arthritic symptoms. When pain strikes in a hip, knee, ankle or other joint, human nature is to avoid doing things that could aggravate the pain. Although that seems logical, this inactivity could actually exacerbate the condition by leading to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness.