How Katharine Hepburn’s Approach to Stiff Joints Can Teach Us How to Manage Osteoarthritis

What if the secret to easing stiff joints isn’t about simply resting, but actively moving them? It might seem counterintuitive, but Katharine Hepburn—one of Hollywood’s greatest stars—knew that staying active was the key to managing osteoarthritis and maintaining a healthy, independent lifestyle well into her later years.

By her 70s, osteoarthritis had begun to affect her knees, spine, and even her famously expressive hands. Yet, rather than succumbing to pain or resting excessively, Hepburn doubled down on movement. Here’s what we can all learn from her approach.

Katharine Hepburn’s Secret to Managing Osteoarthritis: Regular Movement

Katharine Hepburn didn’t let osteoarthritis control her life. She knew that low-impact, consistent exercise was the key to managing stiff joints. Every day, she swam in the Long Island Sound, even during the freezing winter months. No wetsuit, just her signature bathing cap and a determined attitude.

“I move because my joints don’t feel perfect—not the other way around,” Hepburn would often say. And she was right. Regular, low-impact exercises like swimming are some of the best ways to strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and keep your joints from stiffening further.

The Importance of Posture and Strength

Hepburn was also diligent about her posture and maintaining strength. Even with her joints hurting, she insisted on carrying her own luggage into airports well into her 80s. “Why let someone else carry your life for you?” she famously retorted to a bellhop.

This commitment to strength and posture is critical when managing osteoarthritis. Poor posture and weak muscles can exacerbate joint pain. In fact, maintaining good posture and a strong core can take pressure off your joints, helping you move better and feel more comfortable in your body.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Support: What Hepburn Knew

Besides exercise, Hepburn made mindful choices about her diet and self-care. She ate nutrient-rich foods, stayed slim (because extra weight adds pressure to your joints), and took cod liver oil—one of the earliest natural anti-inflammatory supplements, long before turmeric lattes were a thing.

This focus on natural supplements to fight inflammation was a strategy well before its time. Hepburn’s approach is a reminder that reducing joint inflammation starts with good nutrition and healthy habits.

Key Takeaways: How to Manage Osteoarthritis Like Katharine Hepburn

Katharine Hepburn didn’t cure her osteoarthritis—she managed it by making movement a priority. Her focus on staying active, maintaining strength, and supporting her body through good nutrition shows that living with osteoarthritis is possible without losing independence.

What You Can Do:

If you have osteoarthritis or are experiencing stiff joints, there’s no need to sit back and wait for your pain to go away. Instead, focus on gentle, consistent movement. Activities like swimming, yoga, and walking can help reduce stiffness and improve your quality of life.

Maintaining good posture and strength through targeted exercises is another important step in managing osteoarthritis. And don’t forget about anti-inflammatory supplements—something as simple as cod liver oil can be a game-changer.

Why Osteopathy Can Help

Of course, knowing what kind of exercise or lifestyle changes will benefit you the most can be tricky. If you're not sure where to start or you're worried about overdoing it, osteopathy can provide the right support.

At our clinic, we offer personalised osteopathy treatments designed to help you manage osteoarthritis and stiff joints. We’ll evaluate your condition, create a tailored treatment plan, and guide you through movements and exercises that will help you move better, feel looser, and build long-term joint health.

Ready to start feeling better? Book your osteopathy session today by CLICKING HERE and discover how to get your joints moving with confidence.

Gemma

Gemma Sethna (MOst)

Registered Osteopath: 9300

P: 07555 348631
E: gemma@burevalleyosteopaths.com
W: http://www.burevalleyosteopaths.com/