Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs with age. The cartilage in spinal facet joints breaks down over time. This condition occurs in the spine as it naturally degenerates due to wear and tear. Osteoarthritis is also known as spinal osteoarthritis, or spondylosis. While osteoarthritis is an unavoidable part of aging, the effects of this condition may vary and may cause certain individuals pain, weakness, and other serious complications. What osteoarthritis prevention measures can you take to help slow the progression of osteoarthritis?
Even though this type of deterioration over time is natural, here are some osteoarthritis prevention tips that can help keep your spine and joints healthy:
- Exercise regularly. Talk to your doctor to see if physical therapy might be beneficial
- Sit and stand with good posture
- Lift correctly, using your legs and not your back
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Eat right
- Do not smoke
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
- Get enough sleep
If you follow these osteoarthritis prevention tips, you may help ensure that your spine and joints stay strong and healthy over the years. You may avoid many of the consequences of osteoarthritis including pain, stiffness, numbness, weakness, tingling, loss of balance, and more. If you would like more information on osteoarthritis, prevention steps, and treatment options available to you if you are already experiencing spinal problems due to this condition, contact Laser Spine Institute today.
