WASHINGTON — While there may be no single “secret” for managing osteoarthritis, medical experts and leading health organizations consistently point to a combination of regular exercise and weight management as the most impactful non-surgical strategies. This advice is particularly relevant in the United States, where the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 32.5 million adults are affected by this condition.
Multiple sources, including the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine, emphasize that physical activity is a cornerstone of effective osteoarthritis treatment. They explain that low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and cycling can help improve joint flexibility, strengthen the muscles that support joints, and reduce pain. The Arthritis Foundation highlights that exercise is “the most effective, non-drug treatment for reducing pain and improving movement” in patients.
“Exercise is one of the most effective, non-drug treatments for reducing pain and improving movement in patients with osteoarthritis,” as stated by the Arthritis Foundation.
In addition to exercise, managing body weight is a crucial factor. According to the Mayo Clinic, excess weight places significant stress on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. Losing even a small amount of weight can substantially reduce this pressure, leading to less pain and improved mobility. The Cleveland Clinic reinforces this, noting that being overweight or obese is a key risk factor for developing and worsening osteoarthritis.
A recent study published in The Lancet Rheumatology explored the effectiveness of a simple intervention—adjusting the angle of the feet while walking—which showed promise in reducing pain and cartilage damage for some patients. However, experts like those quoted by Yahoo Canada Style maintain that while new interventions are being researched, the foundation of osteoarthritis management remains a combination of physical therapy, exercise, and, when necessary, medication.
The advice from these organizations collectively suggests that while medication and in some cases, surgery, are part of a comprehensive treatment plan, the most significant long-term benefits for managing osteoarthritis symptoms come from consistent, daily lifestyle choices.
