While there is no guaranteed way to prevent arthritis, there are several things that a person can do to reduce their risk or delay the onset of arthritis.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight puts extra stress on joints, which can increase the risk of developing arthritis. By maintaining a healthy weight, a person can reduce this stress and lower their risk of developing arthritis.
- Stay active: Regular exercise helps to keep joints flexible and strong. It also helps to maintain a healthy weight, which can lower the risk of arthritis. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and cycling are especially good for joint health.
- Protect joints: Protecting joints from injury can help to prevent arthritis. This can be done by using proper form during exercise, using protective gear when playing sports, and avoiding repetitive motions that can stress joints.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of arthritis.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to inflammation, which can increase the risk of arthritis. Finding ways to manage stress, such as through meditation or yoga, can help to reduce this risk.
While these measures may not guarantee that a person will never develop arthritis, they can help to reduce the risk and delay the onset of this condition. If a person is experiencing joint pain or stiffness, they should speak with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
