September is Arthritis Month. The term “arthritis” is used to refer to almost 100 disorders that affect joints, often causing pain, swelling and redness.
We chatted with Sunnybrook advanced practice physiotherapist Suzanne Denis – and looked to the Arthritis Society – to put together some helpful hints for maintaining healthy joints at any age. First off, remember: maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best thing you can do to prevent a whole variety of illnesses.
#1: Eat right. Stress on your joints is reduced when you maintain a healthy body weight. Follow the Canada Food Guide. Alcohol and too much protein can worsen some arthritic conditions, like gout and CPPD. Check out The Arthritis Society’s video packed with info about nutrition and arthritis.
#2: Get moving. It’s important to add activity to your lifestyle.
#3: Best food forward. Your footwear affect your joints. Your shoe provides a cushion. If you have arthritis, you want to stick to a one-inch heel or less with good cushioned heel support. Be careful of concrete floors: it’s hard on the joints because it is so unforgiving. Choose a soft trail or asphalt if you can. Get more tips on choosing proper footwear.
#4: Safety first. Injury is a predisposition to arthritis. Use safe practices when playing sports, doing your work, heavy lifting, and in your day-to-day life to reduce your risk of traumatic injury.
