9 Tips to Ease Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a real pain in the joints, affecting millions of adults in the US. It’s when the flexible tissue in the joint wears down, causing bones to rub together and leading to inflammation, pain, and swelling. But hey, there are ways to slow down this pesky progression. Our expert, Dr. Thomas K. John, has some tips to help you out.

1. Don’t Ignore Early Symptoms
If you’re feeling those aches and pains, don’t just brush them off. An early diagnosis can help you and your doc minimize the risk factors and slow down the effects. This is especially important if osteoarthritis runs in the fam.

2. Shed Some Pounds
Extra weight puts extra stress on your knees and hips, so dropping a few pounds can really take the load off. Plus, it helps reduce inflammation, which is a win-win.

3. Get Moving
Regular exercise is the key to keeping your body in check. It not only helps you maintain a healthy weight but also strengthens your muscles and eases the pressure on your joints. Low-impact activities like cycling and swimming are your best buds.

4. Eat Right
Good nutrition is the name of the game. It helps you maintain a healthy weight and keeps your blood sugar in check. Plus, some research suggests that vitamin E found in leafy greens can do wonders for your joints.

5. Stay Hydrated
Water is your joint’s bestie. Staying hydrated reduces friction and joint pain, and it flushes out toxins to keep inflammation at bay.

6. Use Supportive Gear
In the early stages, your body can handle it, but as things progress, supportive devices like shoe inserts and braces can ease the stress on your joints.

7. Kick the Habit
Smoking is a big no-no for joint health. It messes with blood flow and cartilage repair, leading to more joint issues. Plus, it makes exercise a real pain.

8. Easy on the Booze
While a glass of red wine might have some perks, going overboard with alcohol can do more harm than good. It can mess with your activity levels, hydration, and BMI.

9. Rest and Relax
Getting enough shut-eye and keeping stress levels in check can do wonders for your overall well-being, including your joint health.

So, there you have it! These tips can help you slow down the progression of osteoarthritis and keep your joints happy. If you need more info or want to book an appointment with an orthopedic doc, give us a shout at 800-822-8905 or check out our website.