Joint Pain?

It could be time to hang up those running shoes

Weekend warriors may be doing their bodies more harm than good, says this news service story from the Seattle Times. All that sporadic running, jumping and twisting can harm the joints, and possibly contribute to osteoarthritis, says the article.

Twenty-one million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the joints that develops when the articular cartilage in the joints is worn away from use or injury. When this cartilage wears away, the bones rub against each other.

Traumatic injuries that aren't allowed to heal completely increase the risk of arthritis. So, if you're hurt, don't just pop some pain relievers and get back in the game.

Controlled exercise can help to ease arthritic pain, however. It can strengthen the muscles that surround the joint, making them more stable. It also increases flexibility and range of motion. Any exercise an arthritis sufferer engages in should be pain-free. Water workouts can be good, because the water takes the weight off the body, reducing stress on the joints.

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