Obesity increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis by putting undue stress on the joints. The knees and hips, for example, will not cause as much discomfort when they have less weight to carry. In fact, every 1 pound of bodyweight adds an extra 3 pounds of stress to the knee joint. So a weight loss of just 5 pounds will reduce the working stress on the knee joint by 15 pounds. Some form of gentle exercise, such as swimming, cycling or brisk walking in tandem with a sensible, low fat diet will help to prevent osteoarthritis. Regular exercise with weights also strengthens the muscles responsible for protecting the joints. Weight training also helps to prevent stiffness and, when performed through a full range of motion, enhances flexibility.

You can also decrease your risk of getting osteoarthritis by staying injury free. Repeated minor injuries such as those that may be job related (kneeling, squatting injuries) can damage cartilage and make a person more susceptible to osteoarthritis.