Long Term Effects of Running on the Body

Actually, for most people who train wisely and who cross train and lift weights to strengthen the musculature around the knee running may actually help long range joint health.

There are exceptions of course. Sustained racing and high performance training is much more risky. Some will still injure their knees even if they use the best and safest running methods.

On a side note to the OP, I'm 56 and my knees are great for running but skiing does hurt them.

Good observation.

I'm not sure what percent it would put me in, but I'm 58, and have been running and racing for over 30 years. I've recorded over 80,000 miles (still years away from Amby Burfoot's 100,000 mile club), with very few injuries. For at least the last several years, I've done most of my running on grass and dirt trails, with nothing but an occasional minor ache. I've had to run on pavement the last couple of months, due to ice and snow on the trails; and I have noticed some slight knee pain lately, probably as a result.

It seems to be the traumatic injuries that lead to arthritis and not low-level stuff like running. If you're able to run and stay healthy, I don't think there's much of an elevated risk. But if you have some serious knee injuries, especially ligament tears (which have nothing to do with running most of the time) then your chances of arthritis go way up. Just like anything, it's going to be vary from person to person. The best thing you can do for yourself is keep the weight off and hope to avoid knee injuries.

55 years old, running since I was 13, with about 85,000 career miles. I've had some trouble with most every part of my legs at some point, but very little of that was knee-related and even then it was a long time ago.

I do think there have been studies disputing ill effects of long tie running on either knees or backs, but personally I think a lot is dependent on genetics & form. I certainly know a lot of ex-runners who eventually give in to recurrent injuries, but obviously not all runners have to stop. The way I figure it, injuries are just the price you have to pay if you're going to run for a long period of time.

For what it is worth, my biggest problem, which has just been an issue last 5 years or so, is with my hamstrings. Could be worse!