Research shows that practicing the exercises helps keep the joint healthy and aids in quality of life
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a disease that attacks the joints mainly in the knees, hips, hands, spine, causing joint pain, cracking and swelling of the joints, limitation of movement and burning in some places. According to data from the Ministry of Health, osteoarthritis affects 15 million people in Brazil alone and is the fourth cause of reduced quality of life worldwide. It can affect people of all ages, but is more common after age 50.
Factors
Wear and tear on joints with aging is common, with age being a factor due to the increased risk of cartilage wear and tear. Obesity causes increased wear and tear on joints, especially the legs and spine. Joint overload, due to the absence of adequate musculature in some jobs or activities in which squatting and frequent lifting of heavy objects are necessary, will overload the joint, which can lead to cartilage degeneration. The same happens with sports activities that require a lot from some joints and with continuous twisting movements, without adequate muscle preparation.
Treatment
A study made by
Monash University
In
Melbourne, Australia
and published by
Science of medicine in sport and exercise
, shows that practicing the exercises helps keep the joint healthy and can also benefit the cartilage. But calm down, before you exhaust yourself from exercise, it is good to remember that physical activity must be guided by a health professional, who will analyze the patient’s problem and which activities will be most beneficial for each case. Changes in behavioral habits and exercises such as pilates, water aerobics to stimulate movement and joint strengthening can delay the development or progression of the disease. In more advanced cases, where there is a lot of pain or deviation, the only way to correct it is through surgery to place the prosthesis.
Prevention
- Avoid being overweight.
- Adopt a healthy diet.
- Exercise.
- Maintain correct posture.
Recommendations for osteoarthritis sufferers
- Rest for some time during the day and after activities that involve the joint affected by arthrosis.
- Adopt a careful posture when sitting, lifting objects and walking, to avoid forced positions that put strain on the joints.
- Adopt a careful posture when sitting, lifting objects and walking, to avoid forced positions that put strain on the joints.
- Avoid activities that promote repetitive impact and inappropriate loading.
- Wear comfortable shoes that offer good support;
- Practicing exercises, even isometrics (those in which the person remains motionless, such as the table) to give stability to the joints;
- Controlling weight gain;
- If necessary, do not give up canes or walkers, which can provide greater independence of locomotion; and avoid falls
- Always use handrails on stairs and handrails in the bathroom.
References:
WHO
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
