A podiatrist or chiropractor can order custom-fitted orthotics that support the arches and relieve joint stress. Joint injuries accelerate the advance of arthritis. It might seem superfluous to recommend caution, but the fact is many people never pause to consider that by signing up for the over-40 basketball league or engaging in that pickup game of rugby, they are compromising their potential to enjoy fishing and hunting activities for the rest of their lives. Take precautions in the field as well as on the court. And don't push it.
Joint replacement is the last resort for arthritis sufferers.
Recently, my father had both knees replaced. Had he been aware of the benefits of exercise and had the advantage of modern medicines earlier, the surgery might have been prevented and his fly rod would not have accumulated as many spider webs as it has. Don't let arthritis take the rod or rifle out of your hands, too. Take a Load Off Rheumatologist Elton Adams recommends ski poles or hiking poles for arthritic hunters and anglers. By transferring weight to your arms and shoulders, hiking poles can transfer up to 70,000 pounds of weight from your knees and hips during each hour of walking.