Arthritis is not a "one size fits all disease". Almost everyone I know who is in my age bracket... 70 to 90+ has some degree of arthritis. For most, an accepted part of the good fortune of still being here. Stiffness and aching joints become a part of growing old.
At some point, even the most naturopathic oriented sufferers will accept the help of NSAIDS, and most will take the discomfort in stride.
That said, many will suffer extreme pain and become disabled to some extent. Canes, wheelchairs, walkers, gnarled fingers, feet and limited mobility become a part of life.
It's just the way things are.
Most of us accept the gradual onset, and just modify what we do to be within our ability... avoiding the painful movements, and learning to use the tools that are available to help do the things that were easy in the early years.
Exercise "routines"... even as simple a walking or climbing stairs can be modified to avoid the shock stress... water-walking or swimming and bike riding help to maintain muscle strength, without the follow-up joint pain.
Tai Chi and simple stretch exercises are good alternatives.
It is sometimes difficult to give up those activities that have been ingrained during the younger years. While not too common, some of my community neighbors have tried to stick to their old regimen... running, weight lifting or even aerobics (especially for the women)... Too many times, this has had negative results... knees, hips, and severe muscle strain.
My thinking is that listening to your own body is the best advice.
