Arthritis is, no doubt, disruptive, but there is a lot you can do to not only cope with the challenges it presents, but also to reduce your risk for the condition itself or slow its onset. Central to this is knowing the things that can put you at a greater risk for arthritis and find out which of these you can control.
In this blog post, we are going to discuss the top three risk factors for arthritis as well as the things you can do to keep these from wreaking havoc on your joint health.
1.) Obesity
Excess weight is a modifiable risk factor for arthritis. Modifiable risk factors refer to those that can be controlled or reduced with lifestyle modifications (e.g., healthy diet, exercise, etc.).
Experts suggest that being just 10 pounds overweight already puts stress on your weight-bearing joints, particularly your knees, by up to 40 pounds with every step you take, making you susceptible to arthritis.
There are a number of commonsense strategies you can employ to stay at a healthy weight and prevent arthritis. These include making wholesome food choices, exercising regularly, and reducing your food portions.
2.) Previous Joint Injury
Post-traumatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that can develop eventually after a joint injury, such as a dislocation. The trauma associated with the injury can wear down the cartilage, cause inflammation, and leave a person susceptible to arthritis.
Post-traumatic arthritis is most common among those who play sports or who live an active lifestyle. The condition often affects the ankles, knees, hips, and elbows.
Wearing protective equipment, learning proper form and technique, and strengthening the muscles supporting your joints are a few of the ways you can help reduce your risk for joint injuries, and consequently, post-traumatic arthritis. Seeking proper medical intervention is crucial for preventing post-traumatic arthritis.
3.) Occupation
Arthritis can also be a result of the very thing that helps you pay your bills—your job. Occupations that involve repetitive movements (e.g., kneeling, heavy lifting, squatting, etc.) put you at a greater risk for arthritis, as they can contribute to the eventual wear and tear of cartilage especially in the knees, shoulders, hands, and wrists.
Some steps you can take to keep your job from taking a toll on your joints include the following:
- Taking regular breaks (avoid staying in one position for too long);
- Learning proper lifting technique;
- Using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse when working on a computer;
- Wearing supportive shoes.
Arthritis Treatment and Prevention in West Orange, New Jersey
If you’re concerned about the health of your joints and need either treatment or preventive strategies for arthritis, consult one of our highly qualified primary care physicians here at Hudson MD Group in West Orange, New Jersey.
Our primary care physicians are committed to not only delivering top-notch medical care but also to guiding patients along the path to optimal health and wellness. By sharing useful information, our providers seek to empower patients to make the most educated health decisions.
Schedule an appointment with one of our PCPs today. Call our office today at (973) 705-4914 or send us a message using our secure online form.
