Degenerative Joint Disease

Cartilage damage is a key feature of degenerative joint disease and disorders…primarily degenerative osteoarthritis (OA) and chronic inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Cartilage is considered a key body component. Although a firm tissue, cartilage is softer and more flexible than bone. It is found and acts as a connective tissue between many body joints, e.g. ankles, elbows and knees.

One of the most effective measures you can take to prevent the onset of osteoarthritis is to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a clear and present danger to developing osteoarthritis and cartilage damage, so if you’re overweight, losing it in a healthy manner can be extremely effective.

The pressure applied to the joints because of obesity causes the cartilage to wear away – mainly in the knees, hips and feet joints. Even if you only lose a few pounds, the pressure will decrease enough to prevent the cartilage from deteriorating so rapidly.

Staying active is also a factor in preventing osteoarthritis, and it helps to reduce your weight. As you age, it becomes very important to exercise the joints, but in a healthy way to prevent injuries.

Preventing injuries to the joints is another way you can offset the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Athletes who have suffered injuries throughout their careers are often crippled by the pain in their joints by the time they reach middle-age.

Choose gentle exercises such as swimming and yoga to prevent adding too much pressure on the joints and protect them from possible injury. When exercising, be sure to warm up and cool down as needed.

Also, wear comfortable shoes designed to promote stability and shock absorption. High heels aren’t conducive to keeping your joints in good condition, especially as you age, so avoid them. Lean how to heal degenerative osteoarthritis.