Health Tip: Protect Your Joints

(HealthDay News) - Osteoarthritis, a disease of the joints, can be triggered by injury and overuse, by obesity, and by musculoskeletal problems.

Here are ways to help protect your joints, courtesy of the Arthritis Foundation:

• As excess weight can cause stress and excess wear and tear on joints, keep your body at a healthy weight.
• Get regular exercise to strengthen muscles that surround and protect the joints.
• Practice good posture.
• Be careful when lifting or carrying heavy objects.
• Don''t ignore pain. When something starts to hurt, stop activity or exercise to prevent strain or injury.
• Don''t stay in one position for too long. Try to move the body''s joints and muscles regularly.
• Always wear protective equipment, including helmets and wrist pads, when appropriate.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Oct. 30, 2007

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