Fitness: Hitting the weights now reduces risk of osteoarthritis later

(Jill Barker/ Montreal Gazette) — Over four million Canadians have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, a progressive disease of the joints that causes pain, swelling and stiffness. More prevalent with age and among women, the discomfort is due to a breakdown of the cartilage cushioning the joints, causing bone to rub against bone.

There’s no turning back once the joints start to degrade, with strength and mobility decreasing as the pain ramps up. Knees and hips are the most commonly affected, but osteoarthritis can also be found in the hands, feet and spine.

Common treatment strategies include medication to manage the pain and injections to help lubricate the joint. Low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise like swimming, walking and cycling is also often recommended. But one of the best prescriptions to lessen osteoarthritic pain is strength training. (…)