Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting over 12 percent of the population. It wears away the cartilage, the tissue in the joints to prevent the bones from rubbing together. As the cartilage wears away it causes both pain and stiffness in the joint. Osteoarthritis most often occurs in the spine, hips, knees and hands. The degree of seriousness ranges from mild to debilitating, making each patient unique.

While there is no way to cure osteoarthritis, there are ways to make living with the disease more manageable as well as methods to prevent getting the disease in the first place. While your doctor may prescribe you medication, there are measures you can take yourself.

There is no better way to make life with osteoarthritis more manageable than staying in shape. Being overweight puts more stress on your already painful joints. Eating a healthier diet and regular exercise will help you attain your ideal weight. Reduce sugar and processed foods. Consult your doctor on how to safely and effectively reach your goal.

Exercise is important not just to reach a healthy weight. It is also vital in maintaining strength and movement in the affected joint or joints, through a combination of aerobics and strength-building. Aerobic exercise - like swimming or walking and other mild cardio - keeps your heart healthy and your cardiovascular system at peak performance. Try to incorporate exercise that works the affected joint, to increase limberness. Activities like weight lifting strengthen the muscles around the affected joints, but be sure not to overexert yourself.

Heat and cold has been long used as an effective pain reliever. Use heat in the mornings or before you go to bed, to increase blood flow, which eases discomfort. Do not apply it to a joint when it is sore though, as it will only exacerbate the problem. Instead, use a cold pack during times of pain, to relieve pain.

Acetaminophen, a mild over the counter pain killer, is enough in some mild cases of osteoarthritis, without your doctor having to prescribe a stronger medication that may induce side effects. If you are prescribed a stronger medication, educate yourself of side effects, and report to your doctor if you experience any. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any medication you are currently taking. As with any illness, be sure to cut out smoking, drinking, and any other habits that negatively impact your health.

Also, try to include more Omega-3 in your diet, which is an anti-inflammatory. The best source of Omega-3 comes from fatty fish and other kinds of seafood, like mussels or salmon. Since most people in North America don't include enough fish in their diet, unlike a Mediterranean diet, try an Omega-3 supplement like Omega Daily.

The best way to prevent osteoarthritis in the first place is to follow many of the same guidelines as those who have the disease already. The key is to stay healthy. Those who are overweight are more likely to develop the disease, as the extra weight puts stress on the joints. Stay in shape, and be aware of any stress to the joints.