Arthritis affects mobility and quality of life, particularly in weight-bearing joints like hips and knees. Proper weight control, exercise, and flexibility can help preserve joint health and slow disease progression.
Understanding the Importance of Weight Management
Excess weight adds stress to joints, notably hips and knees. Reducing strain prevents damage and eases pain. A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports weight control; whole foods, vegetables, lean proteins, and entire grains fuel joint health.
Each pound of body weight creates four pounds of pressure on knee joints. Weight loss reduces this pressure, improves mobility, and decreases arthritis symptoms. A healthy body weight protects joint function and supports overall well-being.
Low-Impact Activities to Protect Your Joints
Exercise manages arthritis through appropriate activity selection. High-impact exercises increase joint pain, while low-impact activities maintain strength and mobility. Swimming, cycling, and elliptical use protect joints during movement. These exercises build muscle around joints, adding stability and reducing pain.
C. Michael Granade, M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in primary and revision hip and knee replacement, highlights that “Swimming, the elliptical, and cycling are great for building strength around your hip and knee joints.” Staying active with joint-friendly options can enhance your range of motion and overall fitness without aggravating arthritis symptoms.
Maintaining Joint Flexibility
Flexibility plays a key role in reducing stiffness and improving joint function. Stretching exercises for major muscle groups like the hamstrings, calves, and quadriceps can alleviate tension that contributes to joint pain. Yoga or pilates routines enhance flexibility through low-impact movement. Regular practice prevents stiffness and maintains mobility.
Daily stretching helps to preserve joint mobility. Combined with low-impact exercises, stretching is a practical approach to managing arthritis.
Take the Next Step Toward Joint Health
Arthritis does not have to define your mobility or quality of life. Weight management, low-impact activities, and flexibility work may help slow arthritis progression and protect joints.
Do not let joint pain hold you back. Schedule an appointment with our specialists today to explore personalized options for managing arthritis and preserving mobility. Take the first step toward improved joint health and a more active lifestyle.
