What You Can Do about Osteoarthritis

May is Arthritis Awareness Month, so let’s review the most common type, Osteoarthritis (OA). 

OA is often called “wear and tear” arthritis because it develops when your cartilage deteriorates, causing joints to rub together. The most common joints affected by OA include the hands, knees, hips, neck and lower back. 

Get Physical to Prevent, Delay, or Treat OA 

Physical activity is the best available treatment for OA. It’s also one of the best ways to keep joints healthy in the first place. As little as 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise five times a week helps joints stay limber and strengthens the muscles that support and stabilize your hips and knees. Exercise also strengthens the heart and lungs, lowers diabetes risk, and is a key factor in weight control. 

You don’t need a formal workout plan to benefit. Activities like walking, gardening, and household chores count. But the greatest results come with a consistent and progressive exercise program adjusted for your age, fitness level, and the activities you enjoy most. And as a HealthTeam Advantage member, you can activate your SilverSneakers® membership to get access to gyms and both in-person and virtual exercise classes. 

No matter what type of exercise you choose, listen to your body. If you have pain after a workout for more than an hour or two, do less next time and take more breaks. To avoid injury, take it slow until you know how your body reacts to a new activity, and don’t repeat the same exercise every day.  

Always talk with your doctor before starting an exercise program. 

Aside from physical activity, there are other things you can do to help prevent or treat OA: 

• Maintain a healthy weight 
• Control your blood sugar 
• Protect your joints 
• Choose a healthy lifestyle 

These foods may help with the inflammation that OA brings: 

• Organic nuts 
• Avocado 
• Broccoli 
• Seeds (sunflower, pumpkin) 
• Berries 
• Apples with cinnamon 
• Popcorn 

As always, check with your healthcare provider to be sure the above snacks are approved for you. And if you think you have OA, be sure to let your provider know so you can discuss your symptoms and treatment options.