Osteoarthritis and Prevention

Osteoarthritis results from degeneration of the joint cartilage that lines the ends of the bones. As the cartilage becomes weaker, it fragments, and bony and knobby spurs develop at the edges of the joint. The joint becomes stiff and often painful. The syndrome is often compounded by later exercise limitation and disuse effects (detraining).


Prevention


Risk factors for osteoarthritis include obesity, inactivity and lack of exercise, and previous injury to the joint. Your preventive strategy is, first, to keep fit. Exercise increases the strength of the bones and the stability of the supporting ligaments and tendons. Exercise nourishes the joint cartilages by bringing the nutrients to the cartilage and removing waste products. Regular, gently graded, permanent exercise programs are required. Second, control your weight.

Being overweight places unnecessary stress on joints by changing the angles at which the ligaments attach to the bone. Being overweight also put additional stress on feet, ankles, knees, hips and lower back. Third, protect your joints. Listen to the pain messages that your body sends and perform activities in the least stressful way. Be particularly careful with joints that were injured earlier in your life because these joints are at greatest risk.