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A new scheme called Active Steps which encourages adults to walk and cycle instead of driving has been launched in partnership with Transport for London's Smarter Travel Sutton.
10,000 adults in Sutton are to be invited to take part in the scheme.
Launched the local NHS and Sutton Council, Active Steps is the largest scheme of its kind in Britain.
GPs and other health practitioners can reccomend the 12-week programe to people who might benefit from more exercise.
For more information visit: www.smartertravelsutton.org.uk
Osteoarthritis - Eat better, reduce symptoms:
Researchers looking into the effects of food on health problems like osteoarthritis, have found that food plays a vital role in dealing with this problem.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is often called the 'wear and tear' arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage of a joint (a thin layer of gristle that covers the end of the bones and allows them to glide over each other) becomes damaged. When the cartilage deteriorates, the bone underneath can thicken, causing pain, stiffness and swelling. The joints most affected are the knees, hips, hands and big toes.
How does Osteoarthritis affect the feet?
OA can affect any of the 33 joints in the feet but mostly affects the joints at the base of the big toes. This joint is more prone to wear and tear from the pressures of walking, especially if you over-pronate (ie roll your foot in excessively as you walk). Wear and tear at the ends of the bone cause the cartilage to erode and the bone ends may begin to join together. Eventually your big toe may become rigid (a condition known as hallux rigidus) which makes walking difficult. Or your big toe may drift towards your other toes (hallux valgus) which can leads to bunions.
How can nutrition help?
There are various factors which cause a person to develop osteoarthritis, such as – obesity, vitamin C deficiency, low bone mineral density and vitamin D deficiency. Dieticians suggest some regular additions to a balanced diet to keep symptoms under control. These include:
- Vitamin C (foods which contain vitamin C include citrus fruits etc.)
- Vitamin D
- Green leafy vegetables, carrots, avocado, sea weeds, fish, soy products, sprouts, oats, barley, rice, millet and fish like salmons, tuna, sardines etc
- Regular intake of calcium supplements
Soc Chiropodists & Podiatrists 7-Oct-2008
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