Arthritis Secrets

Arthritis is a very common and often very painful disease and can be debilitating for those suffering from it. Even so, it seems we hear far too little about how to prevent arthritis. Because we never hear about how to prevent arthritis, many people do not even think about arthritis until they someday have it, forcing them to deal with treatment of symptoms rather than preventive measures.

Because this disease can so deeply impair quality of life and normal functioning, it is important that we all learn about how to prevent arthritis. Even many doctors focus on treatment rather than prevention of arthritis, making tips and advice difficult to come by. Another factor is that treatment for arthritis pain - such as painkillers - can lead to other unwanted issues, risks and side effects, making prevention of arthritis doubly important.

According to Ronald M. Lawrence, M.D., Ph.D., and Martin Zucker, co-authors of Preventing Arthritis: A Holistic Approach to Life Without Pain, “There is much you can do to protect and fortify yourself. Many of the physiological changes leading to osteoarthritis are not clearly understood yet by medical science. So prevention is an effort in which you take aim at the risk factors that contribute to joint damage.”

Following are some tips from the book on how to prevent arthritis which can followed by just about anyone:

Reduce repetitive strain on muscles and joints - Be alert for any chronic aches and strains caused by work, hobby, or recreation-related activities. Repetitive strain can create microtrauma to joints and adjacent soft tissue, and lead to osteoarthritis in later years. Squatting, heavy physical labor, occupational knee bending, and a history of regular sports participation that can cause abnormal wear and tear of the knee joints are risk factors for knee arthritis. Repetitive or forceful motions performed with the hands can contribute to osteoarthritis. And even long hours at the computer can strain and perhaps prematurely age your hands. At the first sign of chronic strain or pain, see a physician.

Exercise (but don’t abuse) your joints. A sedentary lifestyle makes for weak muscles and increases the odds of developing arthritis (and other health problems). Regular exercise is essential. It creates stronger and more flexible joints. Exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous. Just regular. Consider a cross-training program that includes a variety of exercises and light weight training. The use of weights builds denser bones and strengthens the muscles, ligaments, and tendons associated with joints.

Feed your joints right. Overweight and obese individuals are at greater risk for osteoarthritis, particularly in the weight-bearing joints. Losing weight cuts the risk. Improving the diet is always a tough challenge in our time-strapped society. However, the more you can maximize your intake of whole foods and minimize the refined, packaged foods, the better off you and your joints will be.

As you can see from these tips alone, learning how to prevent arthritis can make a huge difference in your life later on.