Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Health

Many health professionals have the opinion that by 40 years of age we all suffer from some type of degenerative joint disease, or simply put…osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis primarily affects the cartilage, which is the tissue that cushions the ends of bones within joints. The cartilage gets roughened and damaged, and erodes.

Progression is slow, but in extreme cases the cartilage wears away entirely, leaving a bone on bone joint. This can produce bone spurs, abnormal growths that can cause additional discomfort.

Carrying extra weight also greatly intensifies this condition, as every pound of extra weight can put two to four pounds of stress on the knee and hip joints! Osteoarthritis was once thought to be a toll only of aging, but the condition is now becoming increasingly common even among individuals in their 30's.

The good news is that osteoarthritis is treatable.

A balanced diet, proper supplementation and regular exercise are the foundation stones for healthy bones and joints.

Concerning diet, particularly important for musculoskeletal health is a diet full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Supplementation of Vitamin C, which aids in the body's production of collagen, and Vitamin D, which helps the body absorb bone building calcium, are also key factors to preventing or treating osteoarthritis.

Other helpful supplements are common aspirin, and on the natural front, glucosamine, chrondrotin sulfate, ginger, turmeric, green tea, feverfew, rosemary, thyme and skullcap. These have all shown to be helpful, but research has not yet identified precise amounts necessary for optimal pain relief.

Finally, exercise definitely helps in the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis. Low impact exercise is crucial to help nourish the joints. Cartilage has no blood supply, no pipeline for bringing in nutrients and toting out waste. Instead the process is achieved through kinetic motion, such as walking or riding a bike. This action squeezes waste out and helps it soak up fresh nutrients from the fluid around it.

In closing, despite increasing numbers of medical treatments for osteoarthritis, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly are still the best ways to prevent and cure most of what ails all joints.

Cordially,

Helen Pensanti M.D.