Osteoarthritis is known as the ‘wear and tear’ arthritis affecting approximately 27 million Americans. It is characterized by the cartilage between the joints wearing down, leading to symptoms like stiffness, pain, and swelling. Sufferers may notice their symptoms worsening after certain activities, or first thing in the morning. One of the most common chronic conditions affecting the joints, OA has no specific cause, however certain lifestyle factors may have an impact on this degenerative disease.
Diet
Research has shown that carrying extra weight puts additional pressure on the knees and hips. This can cause cartilage to break down at a faster rate. Eating a diet rich in Vitamin E may also reduce the risk of OA development according to one study.
Shoe Choice
Shoes can have a big impact when it comes to osteoarthritis, especially in the knee. The higher the heel, the bigger the risk of the developing knee osteoarthritis. Shoes like clogs also don’t measure up, as they increase knee stress. Shoes with good cushioning, solid arch support, and a roomy toe box are your best bet when trying to avoid the path to OA.
High-Impact Exercise
High-impact, weight-bearing exercises, especially in middle-aged people, can cause joint damage to the knee which could result in osteoarthritis. Stick to low-impact exercises when possible to limit your risk.
Texting
The problem with texting is the repetitive motion and poor posture. We look down to write texts which puts additional stress on tendons, joints, and muscles. A Pew Research report found that one in three teens sends more than 100 texts per day. That’s 3,000 texts a month! If you send a lot of texts, try using the voice-to-text features that most smartphones are equipped with.
While there’s no clear cause for OA, some lifestyle choices may certainly have an impact on your risk for developing this disease. If you or someone you love is struggling to manage symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, local studies for potential new treatment options are enrolling now. Those that qualify have access to potential new osteoarthritis medications, and receive care from board-certified physicians and other medical staff. Qualified participants may also be compensated for time and travel expenses. If you have OA, learn more about this exciting research opportunity by clicking HERE.
