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The only currently known methods for prevention of osteoarthritis are:
- Prevention of repeated traumas to the joints.
- Controlling body weight.
Trauma involving the joints increases the risk of osteoarthritis in later life. Since degenerative damage cannot be prevented, the main method of prevention is to maintain the integrity of the joints and cartilage.
Some athletic activities represent a high risk to joint health and should be avoided (boxing, martial arts, football, basketball, volleyball), as should the use of certain harmful work tools (pneumatic hammers, drills, rivet guns). The goal is to prevent or minimize avoidable trauma to joints.
Weight gain adds to the strain on the joints, especially the knees, and should also be avoided. Constant physical activity keeps cartilage healthy and helps maintain muscle tone, reducing the feeling of joint pain after a long rest.
Physical therapy aimed at maintaining mobility will keep joints loose, slowing down their potential to lose mobility.
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