Eight Ways To Fight Arthritis

--Robin Westin

Is arthritis inevitable as we age? Not necessarily. Although there’s a strong genetic link to the condition, experts say if you practice good joint health, along with preventive methods against injury, there are real ways you can reduce your risk of developing arthritis.

Exercise Daily

And do it for at least 30 minutes. Exercising strengthens muscles and that means support for your joints. Plus, keeping muscles strong helps prevent injuries that can lead to arthritis. Certain exercise programs like yoga and tai chi also promote good balance, which helps prevent injury-producing falls. Water exercises like swimming and aerobics help you avoid straining your joints since water lifts some of your weight off them.

Stretch A Lot Throughout your day make it a point to stretch especially if you’re sitting in one place for a while. Stretching keeps joints from stiffening. But make sure when you stretch you take full-range motions. Reach to the sky, bend down and try to touch your toes then roll up slowly one vertebra at a time. Be cautious. Gentle movements are always best.

Avoid Certain Activities Some exercises like heavy lifting, squatting, excessive typing, gripping an object repetitively, can lead to damaged joints and arthritis.

Drop Those Extra Pounds Staying within a healthy weight range is crucial to preventing arthritis. When you’re overweight you put extra stress on your joints.

Eat A Healthy Diet Change your diet to avoid inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, sugar, tomatoes, and potatoes. Include healthy fats such as cold-water fish and fish oils high in omega-3 fatty acids. Spicy foods— peppers, for example—also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Practice Good Posture Whether you’re sitting or standing, pay attention to your posture. Be sure to sleep on a firm mattress and avoid resting on surfaces that are very soft.

Protect From Cold Weather . When the temperatures drop, joints can suffer. If it’s below freezing, be sure to wear thermal underwear, thick gloves, and a hat.

Relax In A Bath Warm water (or a heating pad) relieve aches and can soothe and relax tense or over-worked muscles and joints.