Changes can help ward off osteoarthritis

USA Today

Painkillers can ease an aching joint but don't affect the progression of osteoarthritis. Researchers hope that lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, might slow the disease down. To keep joints healthy and reduce joint pain, experts suggest the following:

• Lose weight. In some cases, losing just 11 pounds can reduce the risk.
• Get fit. Build regular exercise into the day.
• Play hard but smart. High-impact sports such as jogging or skiing put extra strain on joints. Consider low-impact activities: biking or swimming.
• Reduce stress. High levels of stress can trigger joint pain in people who already have arthritis and might actually help trigger a form of the disease called rheumatoid arthritis.
• Pay attention to pain. Joint damage often occurs when people ignore chronic hip, back or knee pain. Prompt treatment can reduce risk of serious damage.
• Stop smoking. Smoking can reduce bone mass and might help contribute to osteoarthritis.
• Eat a low-fat diet. Fruits and vegetables contain natural nutrients called anti-oxidants that help protect the joints from age-related damage.
• Avoid repetitive motions. Using the same motion again and again puts extra strain on joints. Modify job tasks throughout the day to avoid using the same joints for hours on end.
• Take steps to avoid injury. Research suggests people who have injured their knees run a seven-times-higher risk of developing this disease.

Source: The Arthritis Foundation