Osteoarthritis is a particular type of degenerative disorder that affects joints. Having osteoarthritis causes the cartilage between joints to break down, explains the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases or NIAMS. Cartilage is a type of connective tissue that protects and cushions joints so that they don't rub together. When this cartilage breaks down, you experience extreme pain and limited motion. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that also affects joints and causes chronic pain. Having pain and inflammation in your joints can make the simplest task seem very difficult. Making a few lifestyle changes can help relieve stress on your joints and may slow down the effects of arthritis.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin work together to keep your joints healthy. Produced naturally in the body, glucosamine is an amino sugar found in cartilage and other types of connective tissue. Chondroitin is a complex carbohydrate that pulls water into cartilage so that it doesn't dry out. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, often made from the shells of crustaceans, can relieve pain and side effects caused by arthritis, according to Cigna, a worldwide health service company. These supplements are available over the counter, in one pill or separately. As a precautionary measure, check with your physician before taking glucosamine and chondroitin.
Exercise
Several types of exercise are important for joint health. Weight-training exercises improve muscle strength, giving greater support to joints, explains NIAMS. Aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming, improves blood flow and helps maintain weight. Exercise that focuses on balance, such as yoga, helps with stiffness, allowing you to maintain your everyday routine.
Weight Loss
Being overweight puts a great strain on your joints. According to the John Hopkins Arthritis Center, being just 10 lbs. overweight can put an added 30 to 60 lbs. of weight on your knee with every step you take. Losing 11 lbs. decreases your risk of osteoarthritis by 50 percent for women, or about 20 percent for men. Losing weight not only decreases your risk of osteoarthritis, but it can help prevent pain in joints.
Alternative Medicine
Several types of complementary or alternative medicine may also help relieve effects of arthritis, keeping joints healthy. This is a broad range of treatments that includes herbs, mind-body therapy or other ancient traditional methods. Acupuncture may help with some inflammation and other symptoms, but studies are limited. Magnets can be placed directly on joints and are believed to relieve pain you experience from arthritis, according to The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center. The use of hydrotherapy, or mineral baths, has been shown to relieve morning stiffness and help with grip strength. Check with your physician to ensure that you are healthy enough to undergo any type of alternative medicine before you begin.
References
- Cigna: Glucosamine and Chondroitin; June 2009
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases : Handout on Health: Osteoarthritis; July 2010
- The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center: Osteoarthritis Weight Management; Susan Bartlett;
- The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center: Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis; Steffany Haaz; December 2008
