Tips to Improve Your Joints and its Functionality

The joints play a crucial role in the body since the mobility and flexibility of our extremities depend on them. These are the joints between the bones and without them movement would be impossible. That is why healthy joints also depend on a healthy life.

One of the most common problems with the joints is joint pain, a disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system. This problem can affect from one to several joints. Some of its causes can be osteoarthritis or arthritis. But, taking this into account, how do we take care of them? Some of the habits and options we must do, to take good care of our joints are:

1. Stay active. It is advisable to practice aerobic activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling. The exercises help keep the joint active and prevent muscle atrophy. You should exercise regularly and gently to avoid injury, always wearing the proper equipment to protect your joints, such as knee pads. If you already have joint problems, ask your health care professional what types of activities are best for you.

2. Correct posture. Bad postures produce an unequal distribution of weight on the body. When sitting, your back should be straight and supported by a backrest. Avoid armchairs that sink, a firm seat is better; feet should be firmly on the ground. Do not remain standing or sitting for a long time, change your posture from time to time. To pick up objects from the ground, do not bend your spine, but your knees.

3. Control your weight. Excess weight will put stress on your joints, especially your spine, knees, hips, and feet. Obesity increases the risk of osteoarthritis. 

4. Nutrition. Try to maintain a balanced diet, containing fruits and vegetables. Seasonings like turmeric are proven to reduce inflammation, oranges have antioxidant effects and protect joints, the Mediterranean diet reduces pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, broccoli protects against arthritis pain, and ginger is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.

5. Avoid overload. Activities that cause pain or extreme exertion should be eliminated or limited. Wear wide shoes, the insoles can be used to mitigate the pain of the joints of the legs. Canes and crutches can also relieve pain by unloading diseased joints while preventing falls.

6. Preventive checkups: Last but not least, do not forget to visit your doctor for checkups every now and then, early diagnosis in any disease saves lives and lowers treatment costs. Keep in mind that the information available on this site should not be used as a substitute for medical care or the advice of a medical professional.

Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201  Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119