Living with Osteoarthritis

Living with Osteoarthritis

Recently Answered
Q What are the benefits of exercise for knee osteoarthritis?
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Dr. Scott Martin, Orthopedic Surgery
The right kind of exercise is a crucial component of knee osteoarthritis treatment. It can reduce pain and also improve your balance and your ability to walk and do everyday tasks. Regular exercise is important because the muscles surrounding the... Full Answer
Q How can what I eat affect my osteoarthritis?
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Although diet can't cure osteoarthritis, certain foods can help relieve pain, cool inflammation and boost bone and muscle strength. Nutrition can also play a big part in helping your body heal itself. A balanced diet is the right place to start.... Full Answer
Q How should I exercise if I have osteoarthritis?
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Dr. Michael Roizen, Internal Medicine
If you're among the one in eight Americans or one in ten Canadians coping with the stiff, achy joints of osteoarthritis, it's time to get moving. Gently, of course.Exercising -- even just strolling around the house -- may be the last thing you feel like... Full Answer
Q What are the dietary recommendations for someone with osteoarthritis?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
You don't have to eat special foods if you have osteoarthritis. You simply shouldn't eat too much, period. Studies clearly show that people who gain weight as they age increase their risk for osteoarthritis, which makes joints stiff and painful.... Full Answer
Q How do I manage my osteoarthritis on a daily basis?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
You can take charge of your osteoarthritis. Simple steps you can take on your own can help you manage the pain, stiffness and other symptoms of osteoarthritis. For instance: Get some physical activity every day. Strong, well-exercised joints are... Full Answer
Q Do more women suffer from osteoarthritis than men?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
The prevalence of arthritis of all kinds is higher among women (about 28%) than men (about 18%). The numbers hold up for osteoarthritis (OA) as well. OA is more common in women, especially women over 55. Women get OA in the joints of the fingers... Full Answer
Q How does occupational therapy help me with activities of daily living?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
An occupational therapist (OT) specializes in helping people learn how to manage well in everyday life despite limitations, such as osteoarthritis (OA). Your OT can teach you new ways to perform the normal activities of daily living, such as... Full Answer
Q Can an older person with osteoarthritic knee pain exercise?
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The elder should start with only about 20-30 minutes of low intensity exercise per day, 2-3 days a week. The elder may experience more knee pain, swelling, fatigue and weakness after exercise initially, due to the stress of exercise. However, exercise... Full Answer
Q Why is smoking a bad way to cope with osteoarthritis?
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Many people use smoking tobacco as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression. But in fact, smoking can make these feelings worse. In addition, if you have osteoarthritis, the toxins from smoking cigarettes can further damage joint... Full Answer
Q What should I do if my osteoarthritis is deemed a pre-existing condition?
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Many insurance companies will cover osteoarthritis treatment. If you have switched insurance companies and your osteoarthritis is considered to be a preexisting condition, there may still be a way to get covered. Both the Health Insurance Portability and... Full Answer