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Conditions in Depth

This page contains the basic information about Osteoarthritis .

Return to the Osteoarthritis Main Condition Center

Prevention

There is no reliable way to prevent most cases of osteoarthritis. However, you may be able to control some factors that increase the risk of developing the disease. You can:

  • Maintain an ideal body weight.

  • Prevent osteoporosis by getting enough exercise and vitamin D and calcium, and possibly by taking additional prescription medication (such as alendronate/Fosamax or risedronate/Actonel).

  • Prevent major accidents and injuries.

It may also help to prevent or treat any conditions that might contribute to joint damage, such as hemochromatosis, gout or infection.

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Created: 4/27/2004   |   Last Modified: 8/21/2006
From Health A-Z, Harvard Health Publications. Copyright 2006 by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Written permission is required to reproduce, in any manner, in whole or in part, the material contained herein. To make a reprint request, contact Harvard Health Publications. Used with permission of StayWell.