How Some Sports Injuries Can Cause Arthritis at an Early Age

Your high school soccer career ended with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and knee surgery. Now, 20 years later, you’re experiencing increasing pain in that same knee and the doctor diagnoses the problem as post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA).

By
February 13, 2025
5 min

Cedars-Sinai Pulse

Overview

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) can develop after joint injuries such as ACL tears, affecting nearly 4 million Americans. Over 50% of patients with early ACL injuries may experience PTOA two decades post-surgery, highlighting the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, impacting approximately 33 million adults in the U.S. PTOA, a significant subset of OA, arises from joint injuries, particularly in younger, active individuals. Understanding the link between sports injuries and early-onset arthritis is crucial for developing preventive measures and improving patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

About 12% of all osteoarthritis cases are estimated to be post-traumatic. More than 50% of patients who suffer an early ACL tear develop PTOA 20 years after reconstruction.

Key Findings

PTOA is a common long-term consequence of intra-articular knee injuries, notably ACL and meniscal trauma.
Nearly 4 million Americans are estimated to suffer from PTOA.
Once cartilage is damaged, its healing capacity is limited due to the lack of blood supply.
About 50% of patients with knee OA may require knee replacement surgery in their lifetime.
Research is ongoing into macrophage therapy to mitigate PTOA development.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the long-term risks of PTOA in patients with a history of joint injuries. Early intervention strategies, including rehabilitation and weight management, may help reduce the risk of developing PTOA.

Conclusion

The relationship between sports injuries and early-onset arthritis underscores the importance of preventive care and innovative treatment approaches in managing PTOA.