My dear Aunt Nancy has really been struggling lately. Her
arthritis has been bothering her more than ever and with this endless winter
filled with ice, snow, and sub-zero temps, she hasn’t been able to get out
much. I visit her often, bringing her groceries and library books I think she’d
enjoy. But her predicament has made me realize how debilitating this common
condition is.
Arthritis is the single leading cause of disability in the
United States. At last count, approximately 66 million Americans had been
diagnosed with it. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent type, and it
results from injury or from wear and tear on your joints. And, thanks to potent
dangers lurking in your everyday routine, you could be putting yourself at higher
risk for developing OA. Consider these, for instance:
1. The shoes you
wear. If you opt for high heels day in and day out, you’re begging for OA
in your knees. Plus, high heels that are pointy or tight can lead to arthritis
of the toes. Save your high heels for special occasions. For daily wear, choose
footwear with sturdy one- to two-inch heels.
2. The loads you
tote. Walking with heavy bags (or any other weighty objects) in your hands,
with your arms stretched downward, puts undue strain on your shoulders, elbows,
wrists, and fingers. When your haul weighs any more than a couple of pounds,
cradle the bag in both arms. If you routinely carry a heavy briefcase or
backpack to work or school, trade it in for a wheeled model or one with a
cross-body strap.
3. The food you eat.
Obesity is the leading cause of OA because excess weight puts enormous stress
on your knees and hips. Need more incentive to shed pounds? Then consider this:
If you drop 10 pounds, you’ll reduce the stress on each knee by a full 40
pounds!
4. The moves you
don’t make. Couch potatoes are prime targets for OA. Conversely, in the
words of the Arthritis Foundation’s recent awareness campaign theme, “Moving is
the best medicine.” Even if you’re not overweight, regular physical activity is
a must for strengthening the muscles that support your joints—and keeping the
joints themselves flexible.
If you feel like arthritis pain is robbing you of the things
you enjoy, then you’ll want soothing relief—FAST! Try our Baker’s Best Arthritis Pain Relief Cream—RISK FREE—for 21 days.
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