4 Supplements to Avoid If You Have Arthritis, According to Experts

From eatingwell.com 

Supplements are a popular approach to arthritis treatment. But some are overhyped or outright harmful

KEY POINTS

• Because of side effects, safety concerns and/or lack of research, experts recommend avoiding red yeast rice, chaparral, arnica and cat’s claw supplements if you have arthritis.
• While some supplements may be helpful, eating an anti-inflammatory diet and being physically active are key for managing arthritis symptoms. 
• Always talk with a health care professional before taking new supplements to ensure they’re safe and align with your health needs.

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that causes swelling and tenderness in the joints. And, contrary to its reputation, it can occur at any age. No matter your age or stage of life, if you live with this condition, you’re not alone if you’ve wondered whether dietary supplements could provide some relief. According to an older study, about 63% of people with arthritis report taking supplements (compared to 49% of the general population).

There’s reason to give some of these over-the-counter products a try. Multiple supplements have research to support their effectiveness in reducing the pain, stiffness and soreness that come with this condition. But not every pill or powder marketed for arthritis is a magic bullet. In fact, some supplements could even have a negative effect. “People often think of dietary supplements as natural and benign, but they can have some serious adverse effects,” says Alyssa Pacheco, RDN. “In some cases, they can actually be counterproductive. It’s always a good idea to talk to your health care provider before starting any supplements.” 

If you’re seeking relief from arthritis symptoms, think twice before taking any of these supplements.

1. Red Yeast Rice

Many people who take red yeast rice use it to lower cholesterol—but some turn to it as an arthritis supplement. “This is due to its high content of calcium and magnesium, two nutrients important for bone health,” says Putzi. However, red yeast rice’s positive impact on cholesterol may be tempered by a negative impact on joint health. “Similar to statin drugs, red yeast rice may cause muscle pain and joint discomfort,” Pacheco says. Putzi adds that red yeast rice may also interfere with the safety and effectiveness of certain prescribed medications.

2. Chaparral

The name “chaparral” might sound familiar if you hail from the desert Southwest. This plant, also known as Larrea tridentata, is a shrub native to California, Arizona and northern Mexico. Because it contains components naturally high in antioxidants, it’s sometimes used as an agent of relief for arthritic inflammation.

In the 1990s, though, the use of chaparral as a dietary supplement led to dozens of hospitalizations for emergency liver transplants and cirrhosis. Long story short, this one’s a no-go for arthritis (and other health conditions, too). “Consumption in even small amounts can [trigger] significant health problems, particularly liver toxicity,” says Putzi. “No human studies have been conducted to support its usage, as the risk greatly outweighs any potential benefit.” 

3. Arnica

Arnica can be applied to the skin to ease sore, aching joints. One study found that its pain relief effects were comparable to those of ibuprofen in people with arthritis. But Putzi says that, for some people, a topical application could cause skin problems like a rash, itching or dryness.

While such side effects from topical arnica may be bothersome, oral arnica has even more serious drawbacks. “Arnica should not be taken orally unless directed under the close supervision of a doctor, as consumption, especially in concentrated amounts, can lead to a multitude of serious adverse effects, some of which can be fatal,” says Putzi.

4. Cat’s Claw

Cat’s claw is a popular herbal supplement that’s sometimes used to relieve pain associated with arthritis. “Cat’s claw has a high level of anti-inflammatory properties, which is thought to be the reasoning behind potential benefit for those with arthritis or inflammatory joint issues,” says Putzi.

However, research on cat’s claw for arthritis is limited and outdated. For example, one older study found cat’s claw to be helpful for reducing pain during exercise but found no significant change in swelling or pain at rest. Another older study found the supplement to be effective for reducing pain initially, but the benefits faded after eight weeks.

In addition to being older, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health points out that studies on cat’s claw are not well-designed or adequately powered to reach meaningful conclusions. Additional reasons to skip this one? Putzi says that side effects like nausea and upset stomach are possible, and the supplement may interact with certain medications, including those for lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. 

Tips for Managing Arthritis

 When it comes to managing arthritis, supplements aren’t your only option. In fact, there are many lifestyle changes you can make to help manage your condition. 

• Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. Because arthritis is an inflammatory condition, prioritizing foods with anti-inflammatory properties can help manage symptoms. Consider a Mediterranean-style or other anti-inflammatory diet featuring whole grains, healthy fats, lean proteins and plenty of produce. “Foods such as salmon, sardines, berries, oranges, kiwis, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, nuts, seeds and olive oil are great foods to incorporate more routinely into your diet,” says Pacheco. 
• Limit highly processed foods. On the flip side, lowering inflammation also has to do with what you don’t eat. As much as possible, limit your intake of added sugars and highly processed foods, which may increase inflammation.
• Get moving. 
• Regular physical activity can strengthen the muscles around arthritic joints, decrease joint pain and improve your mood. Whether it’s going for a walk around the block after dinner or caring for your lawn, try to carve out at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. 

The Bottom Line

Each case of arthritis is unique, so a supplement that works for your friend might not work for you. And, despite clever marketing, some supplements aren’t a good idea for arthritis at all. If you’re looking for a natural approach to treatment, you can always start by adjusting your diet and incorporating more movement into your day. Before you snag a supplement, talk to a health care professional first. They can provide personalized advice about which products are safe and align with your health needs.

https://www.eatingwell.com/supplements-you-should-avoid-if-you-have-arthritis-11898968

Beat Bone-Chilling Cold: Coping with Osteoarthritis in Winter

From thedacare.org

If you’re one of the millions of osteoarthritis sufferers, winter might not be your favorite season.

“The colder the weather, the more likely you are to experience a flare-up of symptoms,” says Dr. Andrew Leung, a Sports Medicine Physician with ThedaCare Orthopedic Care.

Cold Weather and Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, sometimes called OA, can apply to a range of conditions including pain, swelling, limited range of motion and stiffness that affects the joints. OA can impact anyone, including children, but it’s most common in older adults.

“Cold weather doesn’t cause OA, but it can make symptoms worse,” Dr. Leung says. “Weather-related flare-ups can happen for several reasons, including that cold can make you more sensitive to pain.”

Additionally, chilly weather can slow blood circulation by narrowing your vessels. Muscles and tendons can expand with a drop in barometric pressure, often associated with shifts in weather. Because air pressure decreases, joints can expand and cause more pain, Dr. Leung says.

OA Flare-up Symptoms

These signs could indicate you’re experiencing a flare-up

• Your pain has increased significantly, and even light pressure hurts.
• You notice swelling or visible puffiness.
• You experience more stiffness.
• It’s difficult to complete even simple daily tasks or routine activities.

Prevention Steps

The good news? You can take measures to ease cold-related aches and pains and even head off flare-ups altogether throughout winter.

Follow these steps:

1. Maintain your vitamin D level. “In Wisconsin, it’s common to experience a vitamin D deficiency, particularly in the winter months,” Dr. Leung says. “Unfortunately, this deficiency can lead to bone loss that can contribute to OA symptoms.” It’s generally safe to take a vitamin D supplement. Talk to your physician or advanced practice provider if you have questions about the dose that’s right for you.
2. Reduce inflammation with healthy eating. Nutritious foods, particularly those rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as nuts, seeds and fatty fish) are great for fighting the inflammation that can cause flare-ups, Dr. Leung says. Also limit refined carbohydrates and sugar, which can increase inflammation.
3. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight creates more pressure on bones, joints and surrounding tissue. “It’s particularly common to see greater pain in the spine, knees and hips when people are carrying extra weight, as the strain on these areas increases,” Dr. Leung says. “If you’re overweight or obese, talk to your health care provider about your options for losing weight. You’ll improve your health in so many ways.” 
4. Keep moving and stretch regularly. “While it may be hard to think about exercise when you’re experiencing pain from a flare-up, getting regular physical activity is one of the best steps you can take to reduce joint pain,” Dr. Leung says. Begin slowly with short periods of low-impact activity. It’s a good idea to speak with your health care provider before adding physical activity, particularly if you’ve been sedentary.
5. Pay attention to where you’re walking. Falls can worsen joint damage, Dr. Leung says. Additionally, OA can alter your sense of balance. Watch icy areas and use the “penguin walk.” This involves pointing your feet out slightly; extending your arms at your sides; walking flat-footed with slow, short steps; and keeping your centre of gravity over your feet. In addition, always wear footwear that’s appropriate for the weather, such as heavy-soled boots.
6. Keep warm. “It may sound simple, but keeping your body warm helps relax stiff joints,” Dr. Leung says. That can mean wearing layers when you’re out and about, or using an electric blanket or taking a warm bath when you’re at home.

https://thedacare.org/beat-bone-chilling-cold-coping-with-osteoarthritis-in-winter/ 

Stiffness to Sleep Loss: The Real Impact of Shoulder Osteoarthritis

From thedacare.org

It’s an all-too-familiar pattern for shoulder pain sufferers. What begins as discomfort that flares up with activity advances into persistent pain that often remains even with rest. That progression of symptoms is textbook for people with shoulder osteoarthritis (OA).

If you have shoulder OA, you’re far from alone. The condition is common, especially as we age, affecting an estimated one in three people over the age of 60.

“While it can feel daunting and discouraging to live with shoulder arthritis, we offer a range of treatments that can help you find relief,” says Dr. Eric Erickson, a Shoulder, Sports Medicine and Arthroscopic Surgeon with ThedaCare Orthopedic Care.

Shoulder OA, Explained

Shoulder OA is inflammation in your shoulder joint. This happens at the cellular level as you age. Over time, arthritis leads to the loss of cartilage, the tissue that helps bone surfaces glide within joints and cushions them against impact.

“It’s like the rubber tread on a tire,” Dr. Erickson says. “At first, your tire tread wears thin, and eventually, you’re down to the steel belts. That’s when you have bone-on-bone arthritis, what we call osteoarthritis.”

Risk Factors

Certain factors can put you at higher risk for developing shoulder OA. These include:

• Age: Risk increases after the age of 50.
• Gender: The condition is more common in women.
• Genetics: If you have a family history of shoulder OA, you may be more likely to develop it.
• Jobs that involve overhead work: Laborers such as plumbers, electricians, drywallers and plasterers are at higher risk.
• Obesity: Carrying extra weight can lead to joint pain.
• Repetitive weight-bearing: This could include people who use wheelchairs.
• Trauma to the shoulder: Injuries such as dislocation, fracture or severe impact can up the risk.

Symptoms

Pain is the most common shoulder OA symptom, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Early on, activity will aggravate the condition. As the disease progresses, people often experience pain even at rest.

Many of Dr. Erickson’s patients come to him because they can’t sleep due to shoulder pain.

“Sleep deprivation starts to affect their work and family relationships,” he says. “Life gets difficult — a little ornery — and they ask for our help.”

Shoulder OA can affect two main joints: the acromioclavicular (AC) and glenohumeral.

Arthritis affecting the AC joint is more common. Here, pain will be focused on the top of the shoulder and may radiate up the side of the neck.

If you have arthritis in the glenohumeral shoulder joint, you may feel a deep, achy pain at the back of the shoulder.

Other common symptoms shoulder OA symptoms include grinding, clicking, limited range of motion and stiffness. The last two can lead to difficulty doing everyday tasks, such as lifting your arm to wash your hair or getting something down from a shelf.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing shoulder OA begins with questions about your symptoms and medical history. You’ll also undergo an exam that may include evaluation for muscle strength, tenderness to the touch, mobility, pain in certain positions, and swelling or joint involvement.

Your doctor or advanced practice provider also will likely order an X-ray. This imaging can show joint-space narrowing, changes in the bone and formation of bone spurs. An MRI is rarely needed to diagnose shoulder OA, Dr. Erickson says.

Treatment

There’s no way to stop the progression of shoulder OA. However, many treatments can help you manage your symptoms, Dr. Erickson says. Each person’s case and treatment path are unique.

“We’ve found that two people may have similar X-rays, but experience widely different levels of shoulder pain,” Dr. Erickson says. “It’s important to get to know each person’s individual experience and create a treatment plan from there.”

Non-operative treatments can include:

• Adopting lifestyle modifications, including reducing or avoiding activities that cause shoulder pain
• Applying ice or moist heat to reduce inflammation and pain
• Seeing a physical therapist to learn shoulder exercises to improve range of motion
• Taking prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Getting corticosteroid injections to put medicine into the joint space in the shoulder
• Exploring pain management procedures such as radiofrequency ablation

Shoulder Replacement Surgery

In the advanced stages of shoulder OA, the bones in your shoulder joints rub directly against each other. Bone spurs can form, which block normal motion and can break off and become loose bodies within your joint.

At this point, an orthopaedic surgeon may recommend shoulder replacement surgery. This procedure uses plastic and metal to replace the diseased sections of bones in your shoulder joint.

Full recovery from should replacement surgery typically takes at least six months and up to a year. Physical therapy and home exercises help with the recovery process.

Don’t Shoulder It Alone

Above all, remember you don’t have to simply live with shoulder pain.

“Our teams can recommend treatments tailored to your specific symptoms and treatment preferences,” Dr. Erickson says.

https://thedacare.org/stiffness-to-sleep-loss-the-real-impact-of-shoulder-osteoarthritis/ 

What to eat to improve your joint health

From womensrunning.co.uk

By nourishing your body with joint-friendly foods, you can help ease stiffness, reduce inflammation and protect long-term bone and joint health

                                                                                                        Image credit: Canva

Many people get stiffer joints the mornings or after periods of sitting still. While cold weather doesn’t cause arthritis, it can make aches and pains feel worse. “According to the Arthritis Foundation, chilly weather may increase pain sensitivity, slow blood flow and trigger muscle spasms,” says Shona Wilkinson, lead nutritionist at ethical nutrition and supplement brand, Dr Vegan.

“Our joints can also respond to changes in barometric pressure, the air pressure in the atmosphere, which can add to discomfort. Combined with less movement in winter, it’s no surprise that joint pain can feel more noticeable at this time of year,” she adds.

The good news is that supporting your joints through your diet can make a big difference. “Certain nutrients, like those listed below, can help reduce inflammation in your joints, protect cartilage, and maintain the strength and flexibility you need in order to stay active all year round,” says Dr Wilkinson.

Oily fish

Image credit: Canva

“Fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, because they all have potent anti-inflammatory properties,” says Dr Wilkinson. “Omega-3s help to reduce production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, easing stiffness and improving mobility in people with conditions like arthritis.

“Aim for two portions of oily fish per week or consider a high-quality algae-based omega-3 supplement if you’re plant-based, like Dr Vegan’s Vegan Omega 3, which has the optimal levels of DHA and EPA that you need.”

Extra virgin olive oil

“Extra virgin olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fats and compounds like oleocanthal; the latter acts in a similar way to anti-inflammatory medications, but without the side effects,” says Wilkinson. “Drizzling it over salads, roasted vegetables, or using it as a dip for wholegrain bread can help keep inflammation in check.”

Nuts and seeds

Walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds are all rich in both omega-3s and antioxidants, meaning they can help reduce inflammation and support joint health. “They’re also one of the easiest foods to incorporate into your diet; simply sprinkle them onto your recipes or consume as a snack on-the-go,” says Wilkinson.

Colourful vegetables

Image credit: Canva

Winter can sometimes see our vegetable intake drop, but colourful veg such as peppers, carrots, kale,and red cabbage are packed with antioxidants like beta carotene and vitamin C. “These antioxidants help neutralise free radicals that can damage joint tissue,” says Wilkinson. Vitamin C also plays a vital role in collagen production, which keeps cartilage, the cushioning between joints, healthy and resilient.

Curcumin

Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, a yellow spice traditionally eaten in Asian dishes. It’s a natural anti inflammatory, known for its potential to ease joint aches and swelling. “With almost all joint aches involving some form of inflammation, reducing the inflammation can help relieve symptoms enormously, so try adding some of this magical spice to your diet,” suggests Wilkinson. If you’re buying a supplement, remember to check the label to make sure it includes curcumin.

Dairy or fortified alternatives

Calcium and vitamin D are essential for maintaining strong bones and healthy joints. “Vitamin D also helps the body absorb calcium more effectively, making both nutrients vital for long-term skeletal health. This is particularly important for women, given that The Royal Osteoporosis Society reports that one in two women over the age of 50 will experience a bone fracture due to osteoporosis after menopause,” states Wilkinson. Dairy foods such as yoghurt and kefir are excellent sources.

Want to know more about what to eat? Here’s our guide to nutrition for runners.

https://www.womensrunning.co.uk/health/what-to-eat-to-improve-your-joint-health/ 

Scientists uncover why psoriasis can turn into joint disease

From sciencedaily.com

A hidden immune cell journey from skin to joints may explain psoriatic arthritis

Researchers have figured out how psoriasis can quietly turn into joint disease for some patients. Immune cells formed in inflamed skin can travel through the blood and reach the joints, where they sometimes trigger inflammation. The key difference lies in the joint’s ability to keep those cells in check. This insight could help doctors identify warning signs early and prevent lasting joint damage.

Roughly 20 to 30 percent of people with psoriasis eventually develop painful joint inflammation. This condition, known as psoriatic arthritis, can cause lasting damage to bones and joints if it is not treated. For years, doctors did not fully understand why psoriasis progressed to joint disease in some patients but not in others.

Researchers from the Department of Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology at Uniklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), have now identified the specific immune cells responsible and uncovered how they move from the skin into the joints. Their findings point toward new ways to detect and prevent psoriatic arthritis before permanent joint damage occurs. The study has been published in Nature Immunology.

Scientists discovered that immune cells from psoriatic skin can migrate to the joints and ignite inflammation under the right conditions. Spotting these cells early could help stop psoriatic arthritis before it causes permanent damage. Credit: Shutterstock

How Immune Cells Travel From Skin to Joints

Psoriasis causes inflammation in the skin that leads to the formation of specialized immune precursor cells. These cells do not stay confined to the skin. According to the researchers, they can enter the bloodstream and later reach the joints.

"These cells can migrate from the skin to the bloodstream and from there to the joints," explains Dr. Simon Rauber, head of the working group at Department of Medicine 3. However, he notes that their presence alone does not automatically cause joint inflammation. "It is interesting that the mere migration of immune cells into the joint is not sufficient to trigger inflammation there."

Why Joint Inflammation Develops in Some Patients

What happens inside the joint itself plays a critical role. Once immune cells arrive, they interact with fibroblasts, which are connective tissue cells that normally help maintain balance and protect the joint. In people who go on to develop psoriatic arthritis, this protective response is weakened.

"The protective function of these connective tissue cells is usually considerably reduced in people who develop psoriatic arthritis," says Prof. Dr. Andreas Ramming, team leader and deputy head of department at Department of Medicine 3. "As a result, the inflammatory cells that enter the joint cannot be brought into check, and go on to trigger an inflammatory reaction in the joint." This breakdown helps explain why joint disease develops in some psoriasis patients but not others.

Early Warning Signs and New Prevention Strategies

The researchers also found that these migratory immune cells can be detected in the blood before joint inflammation begins. This discovery could make it possible to identify patients at higher risk earlier than ever before.

In the future, treatments may focus on targeting these immune cells before they reach the joints, stopping inflammation before it starts. Such approaches could help prevent psoriatic arthritis rather than treating damage after it has already occurred.

Research Funding and Support

The research is being funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) within the framework of the CRC/TRR 369 - "DIONE: Degeneration of bone due to inflammation," by the European Research Council (ERC) as part of the project "Barrier Break," and by the Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research in Erlangen (IZKF) as part of the project "Tissue imprinting of skin-derived immune cells in psoriatic arthritis."

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260204121549.htm  

Why do our joints crack, pop and crunch and should we worry about it?

From theconversation.com

By Clodagh Toomey

Many of us have noisy joints. Knees crack on the stairs, necks pop when we stretch, and knuckles seem to crack almost on demand. These sounds can be startling and are often blamed on ageing, damage or the looming threat of arthritis.

As a physiotherapist and researcher of chronic joint pain, I am frequently asked whether joint noises are something to worry about. The reassuring answer is that, in most cases, they are not.

One reason joint sounds cause anxiety is that we tend to treat them as a single phenomenon. Clinically, they are not.

The familiar “crack” from knuckles, backs or necks is usually caused by a process called cavitation. Joints are surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid, a thick lubricant that contains dissolved gases such as oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. When a joint is stretched beyond its usual range, pressure inside the capsule drops. A gas bubble forms and collapses, producing the popping sound.

This is why you cannot crack the same joint repeatedly. It typically takes around 20 minutes for the gas to dissolve back into the fluid.

Other noises are different. Snapping sounds often come from tendons moving over bony structures. Grinding, crunching or creaking noises, known as crepitus, are particularly common in the knees. These are thought to arise from movement between cartilage and bone surfaces and are often felt as well as heard.

Knees are especially prone to crepitus because of how they work. The kneecap sits in a groove at the front of the thigh bone and is guided by muscles above and below it. If those muscles pull unevenly, because of strength imbalances, tightness or foot and hip mechanics, the kneecap can track slightly off centre. This can increase the crunching or grinding sensation.

Noise on its own is rarely a problem. What matters clinically is whether it comes with other symptoms. Pain, swelling, locking of the joint or a noticeable reduction in function are the things that warrant further assessment.

Does cracking joints cause arthritis?

There is no strong evidence that cracking or popping joints causes osteoarthritis.

Research in this area is challenging, as it requires following people over many years and accurately tracking their habits. The studies that do exist, including retrospective and cross-sectional research, have not found a meaningful link between habitual joint cracking and arthritis.

Some studies have explored other outcomes, such as grip strength or joint laxity, which refers to how loose or flexible a joint is and how much it can move beyond its typical range. Findings have been mixed and inconsistent. Overall, there is no convincing evidence that cracking joints causes damage to joint structures, strength or long-term joint health.

Many people report that joint cracking feels satisfying or relieving. This makes sense. Stretching a joint to the point of cavitation can temporarily increase range of motion and reduce muscle tension. There is also a neurological effect, as nerve endings are stimulated during the movement, sending a reflex signal to the brain which causes local muscle relaxation in the area. The audible pop itself can provide a calming, satisfying sensation which may lead to developing that habitual self-soothing mechanism for tension that annoys your family members and friends.

The key point is that these effects are short lived. Joint cracking does not fix underlying mechanical issues or provide lasting improvements in mobility. If relief only comes from repeated cracking, the underlying cause has not been addressed.

Spinal manipulation

Spinal manipulation, whether performed by physiotherapists, chiropractors or other practitioners, relies on the same cavitation mechanism. There is evidence that it can provide short-term pain relief and reduce muscle tension for some people.

However, it is important to be cautious, particularly with the neck. The cervical spine protects the spinal cord and major blood vessels supplying the brain. Rare but serious complications, including stroke, have been reported following neck manipulation. Anyone considering this type of treatment should ensure it is carried out by a properly trained professional and understand that it targets symptoms rather than underlying causes.

Joint noises do tend to become more common with age. Cartilage changes over time, and muscles and ligaments may lose some of their strength and elasticity. These changes can increase the likelihood of noise during movement.

People who have joint conditions such as knee osteoarthritis and have noisy joints tend to report slightly more pain and reduced function compared to people with osteoarthritis and no crepitus. It may be reassuring to know that there is no difference in tests like walking speed or muscle strength between groups, pointing to a potential psychological impact of noisy knees.

Crucially, noise alone is not a reason to stop being active. Some people reduce their physical activity because they fear they are “wearing out” their joints. In fact, the opposite is true. Movement is essential for joint health. Cartilage relies on regular compression and release to receive nutrients, as it has very limited blood supply.

Exercise is a cornerstone of joint health and is recommended as the first treatment to try in national and international clinical guidelines for conditions such as osteoarthritis. Consistency matters more than the specific type of exercise. The best exercise is the one you will keep doing.

There is no evidence that supplements such as collagen or fish oils reduce joint noise. Large studies show limited effects on pain and function at a population level, although some people report benefits. These supplements are generally safe, but if they do not help, they are unlikely to be worth the cost.

Joint noises are usually harmless. They are worth assessing if they are accompanied by pain, swelling, locking, or reduced function, or if they are limiting your confidence to move. Staying active is one of the best things you can do for your joints, whether they crack, pop, crunch or stay silent.

https://theconversation.com/why-do-our-joints-crack-pop-and-crunch-and-should-we-worry-about-it-274161 

Daily physical activities provide greater benefits for osteoarthritis patients than handgrip strength

From news-medical.net

Daily physical activities play a far greater role in the well-being of patients with osteoarthritis than handgrip strength or isolated motor tasks, according to new research from the University of Sharjah.

The study, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, addresses what the authors describe as an "overlooked question" in osteoarthritis research and clinical practice: the best physical daily activities that can improve the well-being and quality of life for people living with this wear-and-tear joint disease.

Drawing on data from more than 38,000 adults across 28 European countries, the researchers examined how closely different everyday physical indicators relate to overall quality of life and the well-being of individuals with osteoarthritis.

We focused on two things: handgrip strength, a widely used indicator of overall muscle health, and motor tasks such as walking, standing up from a chair, climbing stairs, and managing fatigue."

Dr. Asima Karim, Lead Author, Associate Professor of Integrative Physiology, University of Sharjah

The study measured both handgrip strength and motor tasks alongside CASP 12, a well-established questionnaire that captures the extent to which individuals aged 50 and above feel control, autonomy, fulfilment, and pleasure in their lives. The questionnaire is routinely administered to respondents within the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), the dataset underpinning the study.

Walking, standing, and climbing stairs matter most

"What we found was striking. While people with osteoarthritis had weaker grip strength and lower quality of life overall, it wasn't grip strength that told the real story," Dr. Karim explained. "Instead, difficulties with everyday movements - especially walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, and persistent fatigue - were far more strongly linked to lower well-being."

The study shows that these routine actions, often taken for granted, are powerful indicators of how older adults perceive their independence, purpose, and enjoyment of life. "The message is clear: in osteoarthritis, quality of life is shaped less by how strong your hands are and far more by whether you can move through the world with confidence and energy," Dr. Karim explained.

By paying greater attention to such everyday motor challenges, the authors hope that their findings can help clinicians, caregivers, and policymakers better support over 600 million people worldwide living with osteoarthritis, many of whom struggle to maintain autonomy and dignity despite chronic joint pain and functional limitations.

While the study acknowledges the value of handgrip strength as a clinical measure, the authors argue that the real insight comes from understanding how people move through their day and where they encounter difficulty. Everyday activities that people often overlook, such as walking, standing up, and climbing stairs, emerged as some of the strongest signals of how older adults with osteoarthritis evaluate their lives.

"Osteoarthritis is not just a disease of the joints. It affects independence, confidence, and the ability to enjoy daily life. That broader impact is what our research brings into focus," said co-author Dr. Rizwan Qaisar, Associate Professor of Physiology at the University of Sharjah. "This research highlights a simple truth: supporting everyday movement may be one of the most effective ways to help older adults maintain dignity and autonomy."

Everyday mobility is crucial in osteoarthritis

The study also identifies fatigue as one of the most powerful predictors of poor well-being. Addressing fatigue should be a central part of osteoarthritis care, not a secondary concern, the authors argue. Dr. Qaisar said, "If we want to improve the quality of life for older adults with osteoarthritis, we need to look beyond medications and focus on mobility, energy, and functional independence."

A key takeaway, according to Dr. Karim, is that osteoarthritis affects more than the joints. It also diminishes how independent, confident, and fulfilled people feel in their daily lives, with individuals diagnosed with the condition consistently reporting lower quality-of-life scores than those without it.

"The pattern was similar for both men and women, even though women generally had lower grip strength," she noted. "Supporting mobility and reducing fatigue may have a meaningful impact on improving quality of life for older adults with osteoarthritis."

The authors hope that rehabilitation and physiotherapy groups, along with community and aging-focused organizations, will take an interest in the research that links daily movement to overall well-being, helping them design more effective programs for older adults.

Faster way for clinicians to spot declining quality of life

The authors note that the findings, showing that simple mobility tasks such as walking, standing up, and climbing stairs are powerful indicators of well-being, provide clinicians with quick, effective tools to identify older adults at risk of declining quality of life.

"The strong link between fatigue and poor well-being suggests that managing fatigue should be a priority in osteoarthritis care, not an afterthought," said co-author Dr. Firdos Ahmad, University of Sharjah's Associate Professor of Ischemic and Hypertensive Cardiac Diseases.

Dr. Karim added that community and rehabilitation programs may benefit from placing greater emphasis on improving everyday mobility rather than focusing on strengthening exercises, "since these daily movements have the biggest impact on how people feel about their lives."

The study's themes also have strong relevance for health tech companies working on mobility and aging. "Rehabilitation and physiotherapy groups are also interested in research that links daily movement to well-being. Community and aging-focused organizations may find the findings useful for designing programs that support older adults," Dr. Karim said.

For future research, the authors recommend examining different types of osteoarthritis separately, noting that knee, hip, and hand osteoarthritis may influence mobility and well-being in distinct ways.

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260202/Daily-physical-activities-provide-greater-benefits-for-osteoarthritis-patients-than-handgrip-strength.aspx