Essential Tips For Looking After Your Joints

Arthritis is a condition which affects many people, particularly those in later life. The NHS estimates that around 10 million people in the UK suffer from the condition, which can cause pain and inflammation in joints. While there are numerous types of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two of the commonest kinds which most people tend to suffer with.

Osteoarthritis is more common, accounting for around 85 per cent of arthritis cases in the UK. It is characterised by the wearing down of cartilage tissue between joints, causing bones to rub together.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, which means that it is caused by the body’s immune system attacking the body itself. In many cases it is more serious than osteoarthritis and lead to mobility problems.

For those suffering from arthritis, it is important to do what you can to treat the condition and minimise its effects on the body. And whether you suffer from arthritis or not, it is always essential to keep your joints healthy. So, without further ado, here are some tips on how to look after your joints:

Regular Exercise

If your joints stay idle for too long, they’re more like to become stiff or seize up. So ensure you exercise regularly to keep them in great shape and good working order. When it comes to your joints, cardiovascular exercises such as swimming and cycling are much better for you – exercises which involve lots of running and jumping are higher impact, and can put strain on your joints every time your legs or body reconnect with the ground.

Healthy Diet

Vitamin C and calcium are essential nutrients for your bones, so it always helps to ensure you’re getting enough in your diet to keep your skeleton and joints in good condition. Additionally, those at a healthier weight will find that their joints won’t have to work as hard, and be less susceptible to feelings of pain.

Protect Yourself

Some jobs or sports come with a higher risk of injury than others. In any event, it is always important to protect yourself from potential injury and damage to your joints. When undertaking higher risk activities, always use the appropriate protective equipment.