Arthritis does not just affect us in our old age; it can sneak up on us at any time. There are many different types of arthritis, and there is no way to predict it. Sometimes, previous sports injuries lead to arthritis, which sets in as we age. If you have family members with arthritis, you may or may not experience the effects. The fact of the matter is that, unfortunately, many of us will inevitably confront those achy joints. As such, preventing arthritis and managing existing joint pain is often a component of remaining active as we age.
Prevent Arthritis & Manage Existing Joint Pain
We are going to explore how to prevent arthritis and how to live with the pain should you have it. Now, if you have a severe type of arthritis, your physician is probably following up on you. It is always best to heed your physician’s direction and ask if you should try something new.
There are numerous ways to ease or eliminate joint pain. If you stay current on wellness education, you may have read that staying mobile and active with arthritis is essential. Physical activity keeps it at bay and minimizes the pain and stiffness associated with this disease. It is also a good idea to keep up with what the Arthritis Foundation has to say. But, in general, here are a few good rules of thumb:
- Maintain a healthy weight if you know you have osteoarthritis.
- Avoid smoking if you have a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Eat a healthy diet that is “low in sugar, alcohol, and purines” especially for a gout diagnosis.
Staying Active Doesn’t Mean Vigorous Exercises
Whether you currently have arthritis or not, maintaining whatever mobility and function you enjoy is key. There are many simple and fun yet effective ways to stay active with arthritis without overdoing it. Walking regularly or taking a Tai Chi class are gentle yet effective practices to ward off the effects of arthritis. Start slow and stick with whatever you choose, and you will begin to see the benefits. The secret is to just keep moving!
Exercises that Help Manage and Prevent Arthritis
Before you start any new exercise, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor. If you get the go-ahead, here are just a few simple exercises that can help keep you moving.
Walking
Everyone knows walking is an effective way to lose weight. But you may not know that the Mayo Clinic’s Healthy Lifestyle Fitness website reveals many other benefits of walking. A brisk walk has many health rewards. One is that it “strengthens bones and muscles,” which helps prevent arthritis and arthritic pain. Be sure to invest in a good pair of walking shoes, to ensure you get the most out of your walks.
Stretching
Stretching is an easy and gentle way to strengthen your entire body and there are a multitude of benefits. You should stretch before you go walking, as it helps your posture and gait. Regular stretching also improves your range of motion and helps your entire body feel better. If you have not done this type of exercise previously, go slow. Give yourself time to build up your stamina. Again, asking your physician for guidance is always a good idea.
Keep Those Fingers and Feet Moving
The goal is to keep our hands and feet in motion and our fingers and toes nimble. If you love crocheting, knitting, cards, or gardening, all of these are great ways to keep your fingers in motion. Next time you are sitting and enjoying a podcast or television show, use the time to do some simple hand exercises. And remember your feet, too.
At The Cabana at Jensen Dunes in Jensen Beach, FL, We Keep Bodies in Motion
Living life to its fullest is our goal every day at The Cabana at Jensen Dunes in Jensen Beach, FL. We make sure our residents have their choice of fun and social ways to stay active. Our wellness program and full educational and events calendar make aging well easy and fun. To learn more about The Cabana’s assisted living and memory care services or to schedule a tour, give us a call at 772-758-1003.