Lifestyle Changes
Sometimes, making small changes to your lifestyle can pay big dividends when it comes to managing your osteoarthritisOsteoarthritis
Arthritis typically with onset during middle or old age that is characterized by degenerative (gradual deterioration of joint) and sometimes abnormal growth in the bone and cartilage of one or more joints and a progressive wearing down of opposing joint surfaces with consequent distortion of joint position and is marked symptomatically especially by pain, swelling, and stiffness; abbreviation (OA) pain.
Weight ControlLosing weight will make a difference! A lighter load reduces pressure on your knees and means slower joint degeneration. Good nutrition can help you maintain your body weight or lose additional weight that will reduce pressure on your knees. Salt, sugar and alcohol may make arthritis worse while eating more dietary fiber, including fruits and vegetables, can help ease arthritis pain. Diet and weight control play an important role in relieving knee pain. Talk to your doctor about the right diet for your body. |
RestIn addition to exercise, your treatment regimen must include rest. Be sure to pay attention to your body's signals and know when to stop or slow down to prevent pain caused by overdoing it. |
Joint CareWarm towels, a heating pad, hot packs, or a warm bath or shower applies moist heat to the joint. Water therapy, such as in a heated pool or whirlpool, may also offer relief. The heat will relax your muscles, increase the joint’s flexibility and may help relieve joint pain and stiffness as well as aches and pains. In some cases, cold packs can relieve pain or numb an affected area. |
