As we age, our joints and muscles begin to ache. The physical activities we use to do can become difficult and almost painful. We got in contact with Mark Williams, executive manager, from Sarnia’s CBI Health Centre, to gain insight on managing arthritis pain as we age. Here is what Mark had to say:
Arthritis is painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. This can cause a decreased range of motion leading to difficulty performing weight-bearing activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs.
The two greatest tips for managing arthritis pain are:
Motion is lotion!
a. Do flexibility (Yoga and Tai Chi) and strengthening exercises (weight lifting, walking, swimming) that will keep the joints moving.
b. Do pool exercises that will help reduce the load bearing on lower extremity joints, such as knees, hips, and ankles.
c. Remember to gradually work your way into each exercise as to not significantly flare up a joint.
Pictured Above: Albany residents enjoying their weekly S.A.F.E fitness.
2. Eat to live, don’t live to eat!
a. Eat a well-balanced diet consisting mostly of plant-based foods and eliminate processed foods.
b. Eat in moderation to help manage pain and keep the body from gaining excessive weight that can impact weight-bearing activities. 
Pictured above: a sample menu of our healthy, home cooked meals. Albany residents get to enjoy local beef, chicken and eggs as well as in season produce. Residents receive 3 healthy meals daily plus snacks. Attention is paid to special diets.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so keep up with the above suggestions since arthritis that is left unattended can significantly impact life-style and limit the ability to be active.