Osteoarthritis also called osteoarthrosis, degenerative joint disease, or degenerative arthritis, can be extremely painful. When someone has osteoarthritis the cartilage will slowly start to break down, this will then cause the bones to become bare and rub against each other. Eventually, the breakdown of the cartilage may cause the joints to work improperly. The disease is most apparent for individuals age 65 and older. Causes can be linked to genetics and individual lifestyle. As you read this article you will find helpful tips to possibly avoid or minimize osteoarthritis and its effects.

First and foremost know your family history. You may have to look back into your history to find out if anyone in your family may have this disease, but also take a look at yourself, do you have wide hips or are you double jointed as these can be warning signs. It is very important not take your family history lightly, once you determine that osteoarthritis may run in your family you need to take preventive measures.

Strive to maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can cause osteoarthritis. The less stress that you put on your bones and joints gives you a better chance of not acquiring the disease. The single most effective way to avoid this disease is to simply reduce your weight to an acceptable body weight for your height and body frame.

Slow down when doing strenuous tasks around the house. For example if you are gardening a couple of times a week around the house, make sure to take many breaks, you do not want to be on your knees or bending down for long periods of time, as this can cause joint damage.

As we know weekly exercise is great for our overall health, but it also works to keep your bones and muscles strong to help fight against osteoarthritis. For those already with the disease, exercise also plays an important role in treatments. There are some good effective exercise techniques that you should implement, for example, head turns, forward arm reach, or skiers squat, I would suggest that go to your local health gym for more helpful exercise tips, as they will develop an exercise plan just right for you.

Take an active role in your overall health. Get on a regular exercise plan and watch the foods that you consume, this will improve the quality of your life. Always start off slow, as this will help to prevent burnout, and if possible get a health buddy to help with support.