Lifestyle and Arthritis

Arthritis, as defined in the North American dictionary, is a form of arthritis characterized by gradual loss of cartilage of the joints, usually affecting people after middle age; degenerative joint disease.

As the number of adults in the population age 50+ increases, the number
of people with arthritis will increase. Arthritis is best described as an inflammatory process.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary in severity from person to person.

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Redness
• Warmth

What is the cause of arthritis?

The cause of most types is unknown. The many different types of arthritis gives credence to there being many different causes. Genetics and lifestyle behaviors are high on the list of causes.

The behavior or trait that increases a person’s chance of developing arthritis include several factors. These risk factors include:

Age – Arthritis generally and osteoarthritis specifically, increases with age.

Obesity – Overweight increases the stress on weight bearing joints, thereby increasing wear and tear and risk of developing arthritis/osteoarthritis.

Gender – Arthritis is more prevalent in women than men.

Work habits – Repetitive movements and heavy lifting can stress the joints which can cause osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis: Os∙te∙o∙ar∙thri∙tis (ò stee ō aar thrītəss).

The most common form of arthritis in the U. S. is osteoarthritis, affecting approximately 20 million people. It occurs when the cartilage covering the end of the bones gradually wears away. The bones then begin to rub against each other and the resulting friction leads to pain and swelling. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint. However, it most often affects the hands and weight-bearing joints such as the knee, hip and spine. Osteoarthritis often occurs
as the cartilage breaks down, or degenerates, with age.

Lifestyle Choices

Drug therapy is not the only therapy available to individuals and persons with active lifestyles who are aged 50+. There are several behavioral choices that individuals with arthritis can make that may decrease symptoms of pain and discomfort, improve their well-being , their quality of life and their daily lifestyle activities such as running, walking, swimming and hiking.

Weight maintenance – Reduced activity levels require a reduced caloric intake in   order to stabilize weight. The percentage of arthritis cases linked to obesity has increased over the past years. Overweight ‘baby boomers’ are at risk for arthritis.

Food choices – Certain foods may trigger the inflammatory process of arthritis. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (walnuts, fish, and flaxseed) may be helpful. Consume more whole grains, fruits and vegetables and fewer refined foods. It is best to consult with a dietician for your individualized needs. A healthful diet is beneficial with or without arthritis.

Exercise – Exercise improves cardiovascular health, helps maintain range
of motion, can slow the onset of disability, reduce swollen joints, reduce tenderness, and stabilize joints among other benefits. First, consult your primary healthcare practitioner. Walking, water aerobics, yoga, t’ai chi or mild hiking, mat Pilates for others. A person with a more active lifestyle can benefit from using a treadmill, walking up steps or a stationary bike.

Stress management – Stress impairs immune function which possibly exacerbates the severity of joint pain and the inflammatory process. Adequate sleep is important for managing stress. Meditation, deep breathing, a warm aromatic bath, touch therapy, socializing with friends and spiritual support systems are all beneficial.

Complementary and alternative therapies – Many people rely on complementary and alternatives therapies today to relieve symptoms. The 50+ population is rapidly increasing in their use of such therapies, partly because of poly-pharmacy and co-morbidities. You should always consult
a professional as most mind/body therapies are safe when administered by an educated/trained and licensed professional. These professionals include touch healers, aroma therapists, and massage therapists who are, preferably, experienced in working with persons with arthritis

Changing lifestyle behavior is not an overnight, quick fix. Everyone is
not interested, willing and ready for changing their style of life. Lifestyle behavioral changes are a daily process that brings improved health and wellbeing. How well do you want to live your life?