About 48 million American adults are currently living with some form of arthritis, a chronic health condition that causes pain and stiffness in and around one or more body joints.
According to Blue Heron Health News, the foremost self-treatment on-line instruction on arthitis for seniors, some well-known arthritis risk factors — including your age and gender — are unavoidable; while others like being overweight or obese are under your control. But there are other factors you may not be aware of that researchers say can ultimately lead to arthritis pain.
Coffee
Previous research has suggested a strong link between drinking decaffeinated coffee and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Another study showed that women who drank large amounts of black tea also had an increased risk of developing RA.
Stiletto High Heels
When wearing high heels, women increase loading [pressure] across their knee in a way that might increase knee arthritis.
The narrow toe box found on many shoes probably contributes to some arthritis in the foot. In fact, one small study found that 1.5 inch length heels could affect the rate and progression of osteoarthritis — the wear and tear type of arthritis caused by aging.
Consider wearing heels less often in your thirties and forties to reduce your arthritis risk.
Texting
Unlimited texts might be great for your bottom line, but the habit could be increasing your risk of developing arthritis in your hand. That’s right. If your texting habit is causing your thumbs to feel a little creaky and painful, then you could have texting thumb.
The data aren’t in yet, partly because arthritis can take many decades to develop and texting is a relatively recent phenomenon. But it’s still a good idea to give your thumbs a break when you can.
For most effective self-treatment instruction, please go to Blue Heron Health News by clicking here.