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Avoiding the Aches of Arthritis

Arthritis prevention starts here!  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the word “arthritis” actually means joint inflammation and is used to explain more than 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect joints, the tissues that surround the joint and other connective tissue. Arthritis sufferers include and are not limited to:
·         Men
·         Women
·         Children
·         Senior adults.

Did you know that exercise is proven to help reduce the pain and fatigue of arthritis? It’s true! Proper exercises performed on a daily basis are an important part of arthritis treatment. They help build and preserve muscle strength, keep joints flexible, and help protect joints from further damage. Done carefully and regularly, certain isometric (non-movement) exercises, can help strengthen muscles around joints and reduce wear and tear. Tending to your arthritis is vital because the damage it causes can lead to physical deformities, joint weakness and instability.            

Staying active is key, and although the Florida heat can sometimes be a deterrent from physical activity, don’t let it stop you! Any form of exercise in the water is a great source of physical activity; not only does it strengthens your muscles, but it relieves the pressure of impact on your joints that you may receive from more traditional forms of exercise in the gym. According to E-Medicine help, approximately 350 million people worldwide have arthritis, and being proactive now can be valuable for you and your loved ones in the future. Don’t let arthritis get the best of you; be active and beat it before it beats you! Even though there is no cure for the disease of arthritis; there are preventative measures you can take now in order to prevent the onset of any arthritic problems. 

Tips to help prevent the chances of developing arthritis:
·         Control body weight/maintain a healthy weight
·         Regular exercise 
·         Eating a balanced diet
·         Obtain proper amount of vitamins and nutrition

Photo credit: Taliesin on morguefile.com