Let’s face it! There are some things in life you can change and some things you can’t. The same is true when talking about Osteoarthritis. The question what can I do to prevent arthritis is one that is often asked. Although you can’t always prevent it, there are some things you can do in life to reduce your risk of developing arthritis. There are many factors involved in the development of arthritis. Some of these factors can be avoided or lessened, others cannot. In this 3-Part Blog Series we will look at some of the ways you can do to reduce your risk of developing arthritis and contributing factors such as Arthritis and Aging and Arthritis and Heredity.
Osteoarthritis (OA) occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones, breaks down or loses its cushioning effect. OA is most commonly seen in the hands, neck, back, hips and knees. Because OA is degenerative, this means that over time, it will tend to progress. As the disease progresses, you may lose flexibility and range of motion (ROM). You may feel as though a joint is grinding or hear “crunching” noises. The severity of these symptoms can extend from mildly annoying to painful and functionally limiting.
ARTHRITIS AND AGING
What you can’t change
If we are lucky, we get older. Aging can contribute to arthritis but is not necessarily the cause of it. As most of us know, aging leads to a many changes in our bodies. One of which is in our tissues, and cartilage. As we age we lose fluids in them, causing them to be less resilient and more prone to injury.
What you may be able to change
There is some evidence that supplements may be effective in reducing the risk of arthritis due to aging. Glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown, in some studies, to be effective at reducing cartilage deterioration to a degree. The evidence is still not conclusive so read up and talk to your doctor before you start any drug.
There is also an injectable class of pharmaceuticals known as hyaluronates that have been approved for treatment of OA in knees. These drugs have not been shown to be 100% effective and are not approved for other joints. Seek your health care providers’ advice to see if an injectable hyaluronate drug is appropriate for you.
ARTHRITIS AND HEREDITY
What you can’t change
Not only did you inherit your blue eyes from your Dad and your red hair from your Mom, you may also have inherited a tendency to develop arthritis. The hereditary link for OA is not as clear as it often is for Rheumatoid Arthritis, but it is a recognized risk factor.
What you may be able to change
Though you may have your Mother’s feet or your Father’s knees that does not mean you have to the bunions or the knee pain they have. You can have a different lifestyle with better diet and exercise. And, you have access to health care advances they did not have. The use of safer anti-inflammatory drugs can be very effective in altering the course of arthritis. You can’t fight your gene pool but you can find healthier and safer ways to treat your joints!
In Part 2 of our blog series we will look at lifestyle choices that can affect arthritis and how your body reacts to changes.
Like what you’ve read? Click here to subscribe to the blog!
Looking For More Information on Ways to Live Comfortably with Arthritis?
Click on the image below
Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments. We are always happy to answer questions about products mentioned in our blogs, however, we cannot provide a diagnosis or medical advice.
