Preventing Osteoarthritis

The cover story in the December 9, 2002, issue of Time magazine, ?The Coming Epidemic of Arthritis,? included useful tips on preventing osteoarthritis:

? Exercise regularly. Flexing the joints actually lubricates and protects them. High-impact activities such as jogging that pound on the knees or hips should be avoided, however.

? Get or stay slim. The more one weighs, the more stress is put on the knees, hips, and ankles.

? Build up muscles. Good muscle tone helps stabilize knees, hips, and shoulders.