The relationship between smoking and osteoarthritis has long been debated.

The relationship between smoking and osteoarthritis has long been debated. One study published in the online journal Osteoarthritis and Cartilage agreed with previous findings that no connection exists. But other research has suggested the opposite.

For example, a study published in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases and reported by the National Center for Biotechnology Information involved 159 male participants who had knee osteoarthritis. Researchers viewed the cartilage in the most-affected knee through magnetic resonance imaging three times, each 15 months apart. They found that men with knee osteoarthritis who also smoked experienced more severe knee pain and greater cartilage loss than men who did not smoke.

While different studies have provided conflicting results about tobacco and osteoarthritis, it's certain that smoking can harm your health in many other ways. Smoking is a primary cause of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. What's more, the Mayo Clinic says that smoking raises your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, another debilitating and lifelong form of the disease.

If you smoke, speak to your doctor about whether this might worsen your osteoarthritis. Your physician may be able to provide more insight on the possible link between the two. Remember, even if smoking turns out to have little or no effect on your osteoarthritis, it’s hurting your health in lots of other ways. Here are some tips to help you become tobacco-free.

Have a reason to quit

A strong incentive will help you launch your efforts to quit smoking. Between protecting your health and appearance, being able to enjoy an active lifestyle, and being there for your loved ones, there are many benefits to quitting smoking. And it’s not only about you. People exposed to your secondhand smoke are at a higher risk for respiratory infections, asthma, high blood pressure, and other problems, according to Cleveland Clinic. Keep these thoughts in mind when you need inspiration to keep going.

Know your options

Your physician can help you quit. It may help to do a little research before your next appointment. Smokefree.gov links you to many great resources including online self-help guides, counseling and support, and even hypnosis. Speak with your doctor before beginning a treatment plan to help find one that’s a good choice for you.

Develop a support team

Like any major lifestyle change, quitting tobacco can be difficult to handle alone. Build a team of supporters, including your doctor, family, and friends, to support you and keep you motivated. Let them know you're quitting. Tell them how they can help you. You may find that the thought of letting them down is just what you need to help you resist the urge to smoke.

For more on living healthy with arthritis:

Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Joint Pain
Safety Tips for Exercising with Arthritis
Warning: 7 Risk Factors that Come Before Chronic Illness