To strengthen our cartilage is important that we make moderate physical activity on a regular basis. However, if we are not used, we must go slowly so as not to overburden.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that is caused by the deterioration of articular cartilage, part covering the bone ends facilitating the movement of joints. In this sense, many people believe that this condition does not affect them avoid the constant work of the same, as their frequent use could lead to a wear accelerated.
The problem is that this and other misconceptions have increased the severity and risk of this disorder, as they have prevented strengthen cartilage that can be adapted to different conditions. Given that false beliefs can influence negatively on the treatment of disease, today we will share those 5 misconceptions often confuse patients.
1. It is an exclusive disease of old age
It is normal that most people have joint and cartilage wear because of old age. However, that does not mean it is the only cause of the development of osteoarthritis. In fact, it may appear much earlier as a result of other factors that make them more vulnerable patients. For example, it is produced by poor quality in fabrics, overexertion on joints and nutritional deficiency.
2. Rest is the best source of relief
Eye! Although patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis are advised to take a few hours of rest to relieve pain in no way are considered as the best form of relief.
Physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyle increase the symptoms of this disease and the effects of treatment difficult. On the contrary, on several occasions it has been shown that activities such as running and walking can significantly reduce the risk, especially in people with low body mass index.
What explains this?
Cartilage is composed of cells alive which must be supplied by synovial fluid in the joints bathe. When pressure is exerted on cartilage with exercise, this liquid flows more easily through the same and thus feeds the cells with nutrients. Lack of movement or deficiency of this leads to weakening of the cartilage for its “lack of food”.
3. The sport prevents cartilage wear
Although physical activity helps prevent joint wear, does it excessively or inappropriately can have the opposite effect? A movement performed poorly or training high intensity may increase the risk of this degenerative disorder by repetitive use and overloading joints.
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4. Body weight has nothing to do with osteoarthritis
It is false. People with obesity are at high risk of suffering from osteoarthritis, not only by the pressure generated on the joints, but by increased inflammatory hormones that destroy cells that regenerate cartilage. A reduction in the rate of body weight through diet and exercise helps reduce inflammatory symptoms, and therefore the pain. However, if the person wears a sedentary lifestyle has long can not pretend to do hours of exercise immediately. This activity should be adopted gradually and supported by a healthy diet.
5. You cannot do anything to stop the progression of the disease
The forward or backward disease is in the hands of each patient. Although so far it not found a cure for this problem, if it was possible to determine that a balanced diet and consumption of certain medications can prevent progression of their symptoms so it does not affect the quality of life. Until today there are several drugs and natural remedies to relieve inflammation and protect cartilage to prevent its advance to more serious stages.
Not everything is lost!
Now that several of the questions about this disorder were clear, we can say that those who have this disease should not think about that all is lost. Until recently patients were limited by the lack of knowledge about their development and progression, but today it is known that there are many ways to cope.
Losing weight through moderate exercise and improve nutrition are two of the ways to achieve a positive change in both prevention and treatment. In addition, it is good to make inquiries and seek treatments to impede their progress.