When dealing with osteoarthritis, a chronic condition where joint cartilage wears down, causing pain and stiffness. Also known as degenerative joint disease, it typically affects knees, hips, hands, and the spine. Understanding how cartilage the smooth tissue that cushions bones in a joint breaks down is the first step toward effective management.
One of the most common ways doctors slow the damage is by prescribing NSAIDs non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs that reduce pain and swelling. These drugs target the inflammation that follows cartilage loss, giving you the relief needed to stay active. However, medication alone isn’t enough—lifestyle choices play a huge role. Incorporating weight‑bearing exercise activities like walking, cycling, or resistance training that stress the bones and joints improves muscle support around the joint and can delay further wear.
First, protect your joints by maintaining a healthy weight; every extra pound adds extra pressure on cartilage. Second, focus on movement: low‑impact cardio combined with strength training keeps muscles strong and joints stable. Third, consider supplements that support bone health adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, which help maintain the underlying bone structure. Finally, stay aware of pain signals. Early use of NSAIDs, whether topical or oral, can prevent flare‑ups from becoming chronic.
These strategies connect directly to the content you’ll find below. We’ve gathered articles on everything from NSAID comparisons to practical exercise tips and bone‑strengthening nutrition. Dive into the posts to see how each piece fits into a comprehensive plan for living with osteoarthritis, and start building a routine that keeps pain at bay and joints moving.
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