Living the No Regrets, no ifs ands or buts point of view is becoming a pain in the ass. As my OA progression (chronic joint disease) has claimed yet another joint and my orthropedic surgery to do list lengthens, I am feeling the inkling of regret.In light of this moment I pass on these words of wisdom to you, Dear Reader:
1
Find out what you should weigh for your height and build and get down (or up) to that number as closely as possible. Being overweight can stress your bones and being underweight can damage the hormonal level in your body which can cause long term bone problems.
2
Move around. You don't have to become an Olympic athlete, but walk, bike, swim, play tennis, garden, dance, or just engage in some form of physical exertion on a consistent basis. Moving around can help make the muscles around your joints stronger and that will help prevent you from becoming just another rusty tin man (or woman) with painful osteoarthritis.
3
Treat your body gently when you're moving around. The impulsiveness of youth will take its toll on the body and dues will eventually become due, in the form of pain from osteoarthritis and a lessened quality of life. Drive carefully to avoid traffic accidents and chronic injuries. Use suggested safety equipment when engaging in work duties, sports or exercise.
4
Include good lubricants in your diet, an advantage the Tin Man didn't enjoy. Say no to omega 6 fats and yes to omega 3 fats. Consume one tablespoon olive oil every day and take two capsules of fish oil supplement and one capsule gamma linolenic acid (GLA) supplement with each meal.
5
Use caution with jobs or regular activities that require repetitive movements of the joints. Have your employer invest in safety equipment (or purchase them yourself) that stresses ergonomics and wear the items consistently.
Consider this PSA my gift to you. Yes I have regrets, don't you.
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