
Osteoarthritis is a progressive degenerative disease that generally gets worse as you age. Trying to prevent arthritis is preferable to trying to treat the pain that comes with chronic arthritis.
Step One
Learn how to relax. A tense muscle applies stress to a joint.
Step Two
Balance rest and activity. Regular, moderate exercise 20 to 30 minutes a day, coupled with a full eight hours of sleep at night, is ideal for good musculoskeletal health.
Step Three
Remember to avoid any exercise that produces joint pain lasting an hour after you finish exercising.
Step Four
Practice good posture. Lift heavy items with your hip muscles, not your back.
Step Five
Protect your joints. In cold weather, wear warm gloves to protect your knuckles, long underwear to protect your knee joints, and heavy socks to protect your ankle and toe joints.
Step Six
Lose weight if you are overweight. If you reduce your weight by 12 pounds, you cut your risk of developing arthritis by half.
Step Seven
Avoid soft chairs, and sleep on a firm mattress.
Step Eight
Soak in a hot tub, especially after strenuous exercise.