Which is a recommended health maintenance strategy for osteoarthritis?

• A. Maintaining a healthy weight
• B. Smoking cessation
• C. High-impact exercise daily
• D. High-sodium diet

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a healthy weight is a key strategy for osteoarthritis because excess body weight increases the load on weight-bearing joints, especially the knees and hips. Reducing weight lowers the stress each joint endures with daily activities, which can translate into less pain and better function—often with even modest weight loss. Exercise still helps, but the safest and most beneficial approach for OA tends to be regular, low-impact activity that strengthens the surrounding muscles without overloading the joints. While smoking cessation supports overall health, it doesn’t directly reduce joint load or OA symptoms, and a high-sodium diet has no direct benefit for managing osteoarthritis.