Keep Your Joints Young

 

A new government report says that Arthritis cost American $128 Billion in 2003, an amount that is expected to rise. The good news is that the most common form, osteoarthritis, can be prevented. Patience H. White, M.D. of the Arthritis Foundation, has these tips that will help you avoid suffering from Arthritis pain.

 

Slim Down

 

For every pound you lose, there’s a four pound reduction in the load each step exerts on the knees. If you’re over weight, just shredding 11 pounds can decrease your risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knee.

 

Wear Flats

 

High heels place undue stress on the knees and over time, it weakens the joints. The lower the heel the better.

 

Shape Up

 

Exercise-moderate activity (something that makes you sweat) for just 30 minutes a day, Five days a week, can help prevent or decrease aches and pains. You can do it in 10 minute increments, if you like. The secret is to use your joints regularly...so stay active.

If you have a preexisting health condition then make sure you check with your physician first. This works for your joints. However, generally you can’t prevent arthritis in your hands, but you can keep your joints flexible by exercising them, by fully opening and closing your fingers for a minute or two.

 

Get aligned

 

Natural misalignments of the body can throw it off balance, making certain joints prone to stress and injury. Your physician can determine whether your spine and lower extremities are correctly positioned. Many people have one leg longer than the other, and it might help to get lifts for your shoes to elevate the problem. For more information and tips go to the Arthritis Foundations web site www. arthritis.org.

  

Double Nickels 55   Electronic Magazine for Active Adults