Just 1 reason for a “Petscription”: Osteoarthritis
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More than 20 million Americans have osteoarthritis, also known as OA. OA is a degenerative joint disease that is characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage, with bone eventually meeting bone.
Many of the disease signs, symptoms 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 common sign 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 around joints, the better they will be able to support and protect those joints-even ones weak and damaged by arthritis.
Exercise will help you and your pet:
* Keep your joints flexible.
* Keep muscles around the 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 hundreds of pet-friendly Arthritis Walk events around the country to raise awareness and funds to fight arthritis, the nation's number one cause of disability. A complete schedule can be found at www.arthritis.org.
