Having a family history of osteoarthritis can be intimidating—especially if you’re getting “up there” in age. Learn how to prepare your body to battle the forces at the source of osteoarthritis pain. This can give you the best chance at a pain-free (and even medication-free) existence.
Osteoarthritis is caused by contact between two bones. As cartilage and connective tissue breaks down, the bones in your elbow, knee, wrist, shoulders, and other joints rub together. This can be extremely painful, but a few natural changes to diet and lifestyle can help you avoid some of these unwanted symptoms.
Revamp Your Diet
Bring out the berries and stone fruits. Non-citrus fruits, like strawberries and plums, are nutrition superstars—simply packed with helpful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Try a little G.O.G. That stands for garlic, onion, and ginger, of course. These foods not only add tons of flavor to meals or drinks, but they also prevent tissue degeneration and promote pain relief through inflammation reduction.
Burn the Calories
Get your BMI under control. A healthy weight can be crucial for relieving stress on your joints. Excess pounds can force your joints to rub down the cartilage more quickly and aggravate the pain of osteoarthritis.
Find a way to be physically active. Walking, swimming, and yoga are great ways to boost your health and get (or keep) your weight under control. Physical activity helps promote bone and tissue health, and low-impact options are easy to maintain even if some osteoarthritis symptoms do eventually develop.
Embrace the Lifestyle
Work on improving your posture. Proper posture helps your muscles support your joints and keeps bones from rubbing together painfully. Straighten your back, have your company do an ergonomic review of your desk, and get some advice for improving your golf swing to make sure your body is properly aligned.
Avoid repetitive motion. This is not an excuse to quit your job at the factory, but it is a great motivator to bring as much variety into your daily activity routine as possible. Repetitive activities can stress your joints from overuse, wearing down tissue more quickly. Alternate tasks, when possible, to give your body brief periods of rest if you must do repetitive actions.
Get some major stress relief. Having a relaxed mind and good mental health can be crucial for overall wellness. Learn how to deal with stress appropriately, and consider incorporating brief periods of meditation or prayer into your morning and evening routine.
These natural tips for osteoarthritis prevention and alleviation can be used by virtually everyone to get their risk or pain under control. All it takes is a little know-how and dedication!
