Health Tip: Protect Your Joints (HealthDay News) - Osteoarthritis, a disease of the joints, can be triggered by injury and overuse, by obesity, and by musculoskeletal problems. Here are ways to help protect your joints, courtesy of the Arthritis Foundation: - As excess weight can cause stress and excess wear and tear on joints, keep your body at a healthy weight.
- Get regular exercise to strengthen muscles that surround and protect the joints.
- Practice good posture.
- Be careful when lifting or carrying heavy objects.
- Don't ignore pain. When something starts to hurt, stop activity or exercise to prevent strain or injury.
- Don't stay in one position for too long. Try to move the body's joints and muscles regularly.
- Always wear protective equipment, including helmets and wrist pads, when appropriate.
-- Diana Kohnle Copyright © 2007 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved |