Numerous jobs linked to increased risk of knee reconstruction – News – The University of Sydney

The senior author, Professor David Hunter, of the University of Sydneys Florance and Cope Chair of Rheumatology, Institute of Bone and Joint Research in the Kolling Institute, said the research, while not focusing on the important role of exercise in combatting this common lifestyle ailment, identified the jobs that placed high-to-moderate stress on vulnerable knees.
Knee osteoarthritis is a leading cause of loss of work and disability worldwide and can necessitate invasive surgery including total knee replacement, so preventing occupational hazards is critical, Professor Hunter said.
The burden is increasing, with projections of osteoarthritis that affects one in eight people jumping 50 percent within 15 years, in large part attributable to lifestyle issues such as growing rates of obesity and reduced exercise.
Lead author Dr Xia Wang, also from the Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, said although research has previously identified frequent kneeling, squatting and heavy lifting particularly in agriculture and construction as risk factors, this comprehensive study highlighted occupational risks generally.
With people working and living longer knee osteoarthritis is an area of concern even in service-focused developed nations, including in mid-risk occupations such as cleaning and full-time, unpaid housework and caring, she said.

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