While advertising tells you to medicate your way out of arthritis, there's a solution for reducing minor aches and pains of osteoarthritis without relying as much on medication or pills. The solution is called mindful movement, and it means this: pay closer attention to how you carry yourself – and the things you carry.Through mindful movement, you listen to what your body tells you, so you can relieve pain and prevent strain.

Try these activities in a new way to move through life more easily.

Climb stairs heel first

Lead with your heel rather than your toe. This helps lift the thigh and takes the pressure off of the knee – a prime spot for osteoarthritis to develop.

Carry bags and handbags in balance

When you have a heavy shoulder bag, your spine is being pulled to one side. Use a briefcase with wheels instead.

Sit properly at your computer

Sit with your feet flat on the floor and your back against the chair. Place the keyboard above your lap, and position the monitor straight ahead at eye level.

Empty the dishwasher in two steps

Alleviate the back strain caused by repetitive bending at the dishwasher. Put a chair next to the dishwasher and sit down. Empty the dishwasher while sitting, then place the dishes on the counter. Stand up, open the cupboards and put away the dishes without bending.

Practice low-impact exercise

Yoga, stationary biking, or water exercises are some of the best mindful movements in the fight against arthritis. They do not put extra stress on joints, and they do strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints.

To learn more about how you can manage arthritis, call 888-847-8823 to make an appointment with a Virtua rheumatologist.