World Arthritis Day: How to prevent Arthritis?

You can’t always prevent arthritis. Some causes, such as increasing age, family history, and gender (many types of arthritis are more common in women), are out of your control.

There are a few healthy habits you can practice to reduce your risk of developing painful joints as you get older. Many of these practices — like exercising and eating a healthy diet — prevent other diseases, too.


On this World Arthritis Day,  I will discuss 5 daily habits to prevent you from Arthritis:

1. Eat Fish:

A number of studies have found that fish oil supplements or a diet rich in fish oils may be helpful in controlling the inflammation of rheumatoidarthritis. ... A new study resurrects the idea that fishoil (or at least fish consumption) might suppress the joint inflammation of rheumatoidarthritis.

A study in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that women who eat fish regularly may be at lower risk for rheumatoid arthritis. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends eating fish high in omega-3s — like salmon, trout, mackerel, and sardines — twice a week. Fish caught in the wild is usually recommended over farmed fish.

2. Maintain your weight:

Just as being overweight is linked to increased arthritis pain, weight loss may help improve arthritis symptoms. Obesity affects arthritis for two reasons: First, the excess load on your joints can cause pain and discomfort.

Overweight women are almost four times more likely to get knee osteoarthritis than women of a healthy weight. Diet and exercise can help bring your weight into a healthier range.

3. Exercise:

Exercise not only takes the stress of excess weight off your joints, but also strengthens the muscles around the joints. This stabilizes them and can protect them from added wear and tear.

4. Avoid injury:

Over time, your joints can start to wear out. But when you injure your joints — for example, while playing sports or due to an accident — you can damage the cartilage and cause it to wear out more quickly.

To avoid injury, always use the proper safety equipment while playing sports, and learn the correct exercise techniques.

5. Protect your joints:

Using the right techniques when sitting, working, and lifting can help protect joints from everyday strains. For example, lift with your knees and hips — not your back — when picking up objects.

Carry items close to your body so you don’t put too much strain on your wrists. If you have to sit for long periods of time at work, make sure that your back, legs, and arms are well supported.

About World Arthritis Day:

World Arthritis Day 2018 is observed on October 12. This day is exclusively meant to raise awareness about arthritis, a condition which affects our joints. Join us for World Arthritis Day on October 12th to raise awareness about arthritis. Together, on World Arthritis Day, we can make a difference!

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