How To Prevent Arthritis

Do your joints ache or swell all the time? This pain and discomfort that typically progresses with age is called arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder that occurs when the lubricated cushioning in joints called cartilage wears down. With this loss of cartilage bone surfaces begin rubbing against themselves with movement. This repetitive grinding leads to joint inflammation, swelling, stiffness and pain. Nearly 60 percent of senior citizens will experience the symptoms of arthritis. There are many uncontrollable factors such as genetics which determine if we're susceptible to arthritis. Fortunately, there are a number of variables we can control to help us prevent arthritis.

Lose weight! Try to be at your ideal body weight. The less stress you place on your joints the more likely you are to prevent arthritis.

Engage in regular resistance exercise. By strengthening your muscles above and below a joint they will function as better shock absorbers thereby alleviating some of the pressure and stress on the joint.

Stretching, flexibility and balance exercises are also important in helping to prevent arthritis. Joints that maintain their full range of motion are less likely to develop arthritis.

Avoid repetitive bending, stooping and crawling. Repetitive motion in any joint likely fosters the development of arthritis.

Apply ice to weight bearing joints after exercise for 10 to 15 minutes to reduce joint inflammation and pain.

Take a glucosamine sulfate supplement to prevent arthritis. Several medical studies have demonstrated glucosamine sulfate's efficacy; however, data is less convincing when glucosamine hydrochloride is used. Chondroitin sulfate is frequently combined with glucosamine for additional benefit. Studies with chondroitin have thus far been unimpressive.

S-Adenosyl methionine (SAMe) and turmeric are two supplements with well documented anti-inflammatory properties. There are several studies that suggest these products may help to prevent arthritis with little adverse effect.

Move to the arid southwestern part of the United States if all else fails! Warm and dry climates are less likely to promote arthritis pain.

*  See your doctor if your joints constantly swell or ache. Your doctor can help determine what type of arthritis you may have. Treatment recommendations can be made as well.