Walk Away Joint Pain And Arthritis With Your Dog (NAPSA)—The family dog could be the best thing to happen to your health. A brisk walk with your canine companion can help keep you and yourdog fit and can relieve some of the aches, pains and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis. More than 20 million Americans have osteoarthritis, also known as OA. OA is a degenerative joint dis- ease that is characterized by the breakdownof joint cartilage, with bone eventually meeting bone. Manyof the disease signs, symp- toms and treatments are similar in both pets and people. “With proper diet, exercise and medical treatment, mobility can be maintained and arthritis pain reduced,” says Dr. Patience White, chief public health officer of the Arthritis Foundation. “Walking your dog for a half an hour or even 10 minutes three times a day will help to significantly reduce pain and stiffness.” Early morning stiffness is a commonsign of arthritis. While the temptation to rest in order to avoid aggravating the condition is strong, exercise actually helps—keeping joints lubricated and strengthening muscles and cartilage. The stronger the muscles and tissue are aroundjoints, the better they will be able to support and protect those joints—even ones weak and damagedbyarthritis. Exercise will help you and your pet: Keep yourjoints flexible. Keep muscles around the Man’s best friend can help motivate you to walk for better health. joints strong. Prevent further deterioration of bone and cartilage. Improve your ability to perform daily activities. Improve your overall health and fitness by giving you more energy—helping you sleep better, making your heart stronger and controlling your weight. The Arthritis Foundation hosts hundredsof pet-friendly Arthritis Walk events around the country to raise awareness and fundsto fight arthritis, the nation’s number one cause of disability. A complete schedule can be found at www.arthritis.org. “We invite everyone to participate in our Arthritis Walk events,” adds White. “We know people and their pets who enjoy regular walks will have healthier joints, brighter spirits and a closer bond.”
