Genetics to Explain High-Functioning Senior Athletes with Hip Abnormalities

Genetics, cartilage type and other factors may be able to explain how senior athletes are high-functioning even though they have one or more hip abnormalities. These abnormalities are usually associated with osteoarthritis, dislocation of the hip (dysplasia), loose hip joint and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) or abnormally shaped hip bones. Researchers evaluated 546 senior athletes (1,087 hips) about the age of 67 for signs of FAI. More than half had signs of FAI and they were most likely to have osteoathritis though 72% showed little to no sign of of OA. The study authors found that either genetics or the patient's type of cartilage plays a role in how well and preserved the hips of high functioning seniors athletes are. I find it incredible that even though they have these different hip abnormalities, they are still able to participate in so many different sports and highly active. From experience, hip problems are not fun at all and they can keep you from running or moving but they keep going and that is amazing to learn.