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Living a healthy lifestyle can’t prevent osteoarthritis. But it can help you manage your condition. And, it may help keep it from getting worse.
A few changes can reduce your pain, help you move better, and give you a brighter outlook on your condition. These changes may make a difference:
- Stay active. Physical activity is one of the most important things you can do to help save your joints from greater harm. Regular workouts can keep your joints mobile and help improve your range of motion. Exercise firms muscle tone. This helps support and protect your joints. It also helps lower your risk of some other diseases, like heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure. Ask your doctor about an exercise program that’s right for you.
- Watch your weight. Extra pounds put more stress and strain on joints, especially knees and hips. Losing weight through a healthy diet can ease stress on your joints. It’s great for your overall health, too. Your doctor can give you a meal plan or refer you to a nutritionist.
- Take calcium. Some forms of osteoarthritis are made worse by weak bones. Be sure to get enough calcium in your diet to help keep your skeleton strong. Low-fat or skim milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy products are good sources of calcium.
- Watch your posture. Standing straight isn’t just about manners. Good posture can help ease back, hip, and knee pain.
- Rest. Get plenty of it and slow down when you need to. Know when you’re tired. That can help you avoid pain caused by doing too much. Some people find relaxation techniques useful.
- Adapt. Try to work within and around your limits. If you have osteoarthritis in your fingers, for example, get shoes that fasten with Velcro®. If you have trouble walking, canes and crutches can take pressure off your legs.
- Get support. Many patients with arthritis find it helpful to share their experiences with others and learn practical tips. Social service organizations often can put you in touch with support groups near you. Many online health organizations have chat rooms and support groups, too.
Also of Interest
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