Reducing the Effects of Arthritis
Posted on 20th October 2014 by Biomechanics Healthcare
Arthritis Awareness Week (March 23rd to 29th 2014) is here to highlight how prevalent this type of illness is which affects almost 4 million Australians, and costs the economy 23.9 billion dollars each year for medical treatment and associated costs.
Many of us aren’t aware that there are more that 100 types of arthritis, each with their own disease process - arthritis is merely an umbrella term grouping these conditions together. Of the specific types of arthritis, Rheumatoid, Osteoarthritis and Gout account for 95% of cases.
As the specific causes of the different types of arthritis remains unclear, it is difficult to say what may assist in the prevention of the development of arthritis. However, listed below are a few steps which may be beneficial in reducing the effects of arthritis.
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Maintain an appropriate weight. Excess bodyweight increases the stress on joints, especially weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.
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Protect joints from injuries and overuse.
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Regularly exercise to maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints.
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Regular Osteopathy and Massage care is of benefit too, ensuring optimal spinal and joint range of movement and flexibility.
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Keep your body hydrated. Water makes up 70 percent of the cartilage in joints and plays a major role in the lubrication and shock absorbing properties of healthy joints.
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Eat a well-balanced diet. This will help to maintain good general health as well as reducing flare-ups of arthritis. This includes:
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Increase dietary calcium to reduce the risk of osteoporosis in later life.
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Avoid crash dieting or fasting.
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Drink plenty of non-alcoholic and sugary fluids.
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Have a focus on foods with alkaline or anti-inflammatory properties: Broccoli, spinach, onions, lemons, kale & green tea to name a few.
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Avoid acidic foods: sugar, coffee, alcohol, soft drinks, chocolate & wheat are some common culprits.
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Consult with a good Naturopath, Nutritionist or Dietitian if you need more information.
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Sports and recreational activities are important for children with arthritis, to help them maintain strength and flexibility, as well as developing confidence in their physical abilities.
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They should be encouraged to pick a sport or activity of interest, while parents, GPs and Osteopaths provide guidance on maximum joint protection.
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Activities that exercise joints and muscles without putting too much stress on them, like swimming, should be encouraged.
Biomechanics Healthcare has a complete team of Allied Health Practitioners who can offer assistance to you if you suffer from arthritis. We offer Osteopathy, Massage, Acupuncture, Exercise Physiology, Naturopathy and Podiatry.
Please call Biomechanics Healthcare on 9527 3322 or visit our clinic at 2/23 Cronulla Street in Cronulla, NSW for more information.
Blog by Rhys Donovan.
Rhys is the Osteopath and owner of Biomechanics Healthcare, Cronulla