Is Arthritis Caused by Aging?
According to health and medical experts, no, arthritis is not caused by aging, although majority of arthritis sufferers are older people. The explanation for this is simple: “older joints have had more wear and tear”, this is according to Dr. Patience H. White, vice president of public health for the Arthritis Foundation. Moreover, Dr. White said that a little over 27 million people with arthritis living in the United States are under 65 years old, that even children get arthritis.
Can Osteoarthritis Be Prevented?
If one or both your parents have osteoarthritis, especially hand osteoarthritis, then the possibility that you’ll have osteoarthritis is great.
However, for many people, osteoarthritis can be prevented. Here are ways to prevent osteoarthritis:
1) Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obesity has a lot to do with the development of osteoarthritis especially in the knee. Simply put, the heavier the person is, the more stressed will be the joints since the joints carry the full load or weight of the upper body.
2) If you are an athlete, or a sports enthusiast, avoid injuries at all cost, and find best ways to modify exercise movements so you don’t put too much pressure or stress on your joints. If you are engaged in high-impact sports, the best thing that you can do to prevent stressing out your joints is to gradually increase your training schedule. If you have had accidents in the past that injured your joints, it’s always safer and healthier, bone and joint-wise, to avoid high-impact activities to prevent further damages.
3) Strengthen your muscles by exercising regularly. This is essential because muscle weakness is considered another risk factor for osteoarthritis. Be sure, however, that the type of exercise you will do will help your become better and healthier. For best advice, consult your doctor.
Is It Safe to Move Around When You Have Osteoarthritis?
If you have osteoarthritis, it is highly recommended by medical experts that you move around, or better yet, exercise. Proper exercise motions helps lessen osteoarthritis pain. They also improve function, range of motion, as well as reduce disability. Another good thing when you do regular exercise: it helps you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
For better medical advice on osteoarthritis, see your doctor and talk to him about your concerns and your plans. He is in the best position to give you the best advice when it comes to dealing with osteoarthritis.
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