Relationships between Physical Activity and Musculoskeletal Disorders in Former Athletes

The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence and risks for musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in relation to previous athletic status and current physical activity level in former athletes. Main anthropometric data, sports history, current physical activity and MSD were estimated using a questionnaire in 219 (148 males, 71 females) former athletes (35–75 years old) and 79 controls (33 males, 46 females). According to the previous participation in top-level sports, former athletes were divided into three groups: a) endurance, n=120 (76 males, 44 females); b) speed-power, n=57 (43 males, 14 females); c) team sports, n=42 (29 males, 13 females). The most prevalent MSD among the male and female ex-athletes were back and knee pain. The endurance ex-athletes group (both males and females) had significantly higher risk for the knee problems than the control group (Odds ratio – OR 5.9, 95% CI 1.7–20.00, p