Did you know osteoarthritis has been recorded as one of the common diseases among women over the age of 45? Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease which breaks down the tissues in body joints. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), it is the most common type of arthritis among women. And it’s one that runs in my family. As I get older, it’s something I am thinking about and looking to prevent.
Our body has a rubber-like cushion between the joints. This helps the bones to move and joints to work effortlessly. As aging occurs, this cushion starts to subside. The joints start to grind causing pain and discomfort. Women tend to be diagnosed with osteoarthritis more than men. This is because of the different body requirements. Women’s bodies experience many physical challenges such as menstruation, fertility and childbirth.
There are many factors involved in diagnosis of osteoarthritis including:
- Family history
- Sports injury
- Obesity
Symptoms:
- Pain in joints
- Stiffness
- Loss of movement
- Grating sensation in joints
- Swelling
Manage Osteoarthritis with These Tips:
Manage Weight
Obesity is one of the leading factors in diagnosis of osteoarthritis. You need to focus on maintaining a healthy weight. Engage in physical activities to keep fit but these activities should not be too harsh that put strain on your joints. Yoga is also recommended as it is not too rigorous and helps maintain a healthy physique.
Eat Clean
Eating a well-balanced diet is helpful in reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis. A healthy diet that includes all major food groups helps in maintaining good health. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, tuna etc. Include dairy products in your diet such as cheese and milk. If you are intolerant to dairy you can add calcium-rich food sources such as soybeans, Figs, dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, lettuce).
Take Supplements
It is recommended to take vitamins daily when diagnosed with osteoarthritis. This is because only food is not sufficient to fulfill the body requirements. Take daily supplements of vitamin D (400 IU daily) and calcium (1000mg-1200mg daily), which you can buy easily from PricePro Online Pharmacy from Canada.
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Make Necessary Adjustment
If you feel discomfort in doing any activity, try to adjust that activity to your likeness. Do you have pain in your back? Adjust your chair or put a cushion behind your back when you sit. Adjust the toilet seat to a comfortable height if you have pain in your hips. Avoid standing for longer periods. Make sure you sit in a position that helps support any areas that might be painful.
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Use Therapy
Along with medicines, therapy is also helpful in tackling osteoarthritis. Consult a physical therapist and start sessions at least once a week. Heat therapy is also helpful in decreasing the pain in joints. Put heat pads on your joints when experiencing pain. Similarly, cold therapy also known as cryotherapy is also helpful in decreasing inflammation. Get regular body massage as well to help with the flow of blood through the painful areas.
I hope these tips help you to prevent osteoarthritis. Or if you have been diagnosed, to help cope with any symptoms you may have.
