Health Tip: Losing Weight May Help Against Osteoarthritis

Losing any extra weight can help prevent or alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, experts say.

The Weight-loss Information Network explains how osteoarthritis and overweight are related, and what you can do to reduce your risk:

• Excess weight can cause greater strain on the joints, resulting in wear on the joints and increased risk of osteoarthritis.
• The more body fat you have, the more likely you are to have inflammation.
• Losing 5 percent or more of your body weight can help to reduce strain on your joints.
• Regular exercise can help curb both weight gain and osteoarthritis.