Learn more about arthritis, and how you can prevent it
This winter many of us wanted to curl up under a blanket for hours at a time, only to find our knees and hips creaking in protest upon standing. Is this stiffness the result of a winter of inactivity, or some deeper sign of aging, such as arthritis? There are 3 main types of arthritis that we are most familiar with:
• Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is caused when the cartilage covering the ends of our bones is gradually worn away by year of use. The bones then rub together, causing swelling, pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis typically affects the joints that bear the majority of our weight.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long lasting disease process, and is caused by the body’s immune system attacking itself, causing inflammation in the joints, pain and swelling. RA can eventually damage surrounding tissue and nerves, and mostly affects the hands, knees and wrists.
• Gout is an age-old term which refers to the body’s inability to get rid of excess uric acid, causing crystals to build up in the joints, causing severe pain and swelling. Gout typically affects the big toe, knees and wrist joint.
Arthritis is very common, with as many as 70 million Americans affected by the disease. Is arthritis something that we must naturally expect as we age? Maybe, but other contributing factors include gender, obesity, and work factors such as repetitive movements. There are some things we can do to lower our risk of arthritis and protect our joints from damage.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight creates more wear and tear on our joints, leading to damage, and an increased risk of arthritis.
• Exercise daily. Exercise is important to maintain the strength of our bones and joints. Choose exercises that place the least body weight on your joints. Ask your doctor or physical therapist to help design an exercise program that’s right for you.
• Use devices and techniques at work to protect your joints. Use proper lifting procedures and ask your physician for guidance with any types of braces that may help protect your joints. Consider special adaptive devices such as larger handles on utensils.
• Eat a balanced diet. Having a diet that is rich in calcium, Vitamin D and other essential nutrients will help protect and support our bones and joints.
Remember, great support and education is at your fingertips! For more information on dealing with the effects of arthritis, contact us today! Toll free 866-808-1351. Locally 336-808-1351
Posting Resources for this:
http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/life-with-ra-11/protecting-joints-with-ra?page=1
http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/arthritis-basics
This information is brought to you by Hearthside Home Care and Tina Glenn
Serving the Piedmont Triad since 1999
Located in Greensboro NC, at 505 State Street
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