KNEE AND HIP
MORE than 8.5 million people in the uK are living with the discomfort and disability caused by arthritis, a debilitating condition that affects the hands, feet, spine, hips and knees in particular. Arthritis is characterised by inflammation and damage to cartilage and bone in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling and deformity.
Certain drugs make arthri - tis worse, including statins for high cholesterol and hor - monal drugs for prostate and breast cancer.
Being overweight, smoking and having a high- sugar diet can all contribute to making joint damage worse.
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, as it is very difficult to restore the cartilage once it has been destroyed.
WHAT TO DO: Exercise that involves stretching is the most effective way to slow its progress and help alleviate the swelling and pain.
The problem is that pain often gets temporarily worse at the start of exercise, giving the impression that it should be avoided. But it does wear off if you persist.
Studies have shown that yoga and Pilates significantly relieve joint pain and improve mobility.