Take these steps to help maintain the health of your joints.

Arthritis is a chronic condition characterized by joint pain and inflammation. It can make it difficult to engage in some activities and may reduce your quality of life. That's why many people wonder if there is something they can do to prevent arthritis.

Unfortunately, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to arthritis prevention. That's because there are many types of arthritis and they have different risk factors. For example, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder and there is little you can do to prevent it. On the other hand, osteoarthritis (OA) has a number of risk factors that are under your control.

You may not be able to completely prevent arthritis, but addressing modifiable risk factors is a step you can take in the right direction. Here are 5 ways to reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis and the one with the most risk factors under your control:

• Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight can hasten degeneration of your joints. This is especially true of the knees. Every extra pound of weight exerts four extra pounds of pressure on your knees. Obesity raises your risk of developing certain types of arthritis and makes symptoms worse for almost all types.
• Exercise. Being physically active helps strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints and improves flexibility, both of which are good for your joints. It also helps you lose weight, which may also reduce arthritis risk. You may need to stick to low-impact activities if you already have arthritis or modify activities due to arthritis symptoms.
• Use proper form and techniques. Injuring a joint makes it more likely you'll develop arthritis. To avoid injury, use proper form and techniques when exercising, sitting, lifting, carrying objects and playing sports.
• Avoid overuse. Engaging in repetitive motions at work or at play puts your joints at a greater risk of injury and developing arthritis.
• See a doctor. If you think you have arthritis, see a doctor. The condition is usually progressive and won't get better on its own. A medical professional can recommend lifestyle changes and treatments that may slow progression of the disease and improve symptoms.

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^{Date Last Reviewed: February 20, 2020}

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