FRIENDS: My weight loss plan has not gone according to plan. I blame my social life but I really need to get a grip and lose minimally 10 pounds. Call me out when I am about to happily indulge in an extra slice of pizza or an extra glass of wine.

And in the meantime, check out this info from the new Osteoarthritis Clinic that the Cayuga Wellness Center in Ithaca has just opened:

Being overweight is a major but modifiable risk factor for developing osteoarthritis.

• Every pound of excess weight puts an extra 6-8 pounds of load on the hips and and extra 4 pounds of load on a person’s knees.
• A person typically walks two miles each day and takes approximately 4,000 steps.
• One extra pound of body weight adds 24,000 – 32,000 pounds of extra loading on the hip joints.
• Being a pound overweight doesn’t seem like much, but over time, the body’s joints wear from the added pressure of extra body weight, and that can progressively lead to osteoarthritis.

I know I am not alone with this problem. Globally, 18% of women over 60 have arthritis as do 9% of men. If you’re in your 30s or 40s, you can do a lot to stave off arthritis by staying active and making sure you keep your weight under control. Arthritis is a drag!!

Read on below for important info on dealing with arthritis.

Staying active is most important ******

• Osteoarthritis is not an excuse to avoid exercise.
• Physical or occupational therapy helps with strengthening and maintaining joint mobility.

Braces for knees or hands can reduce pain and provide joint support.

Medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can help relieve pain.

• Topical non-steroidal analgesics may be used to control osteoarthritis pain.
• Prescription medications are reserved for severe pain.

Source: Ithaca Journal