Tips for Joint Health

We often take our joint health for granted until those first pangs of pain. The pain is usually subtle in the beginning. So subtle we simply ignore or work around it. If left untreated, however, joint pain typically increases and can become debilitating over time.

Joint pain can be triggered by many things, including aging, excess weight strain, physical overexertion, joint overuse, chronic inflammation, arthritis and earlier joint and ligament traumas such as sports injuries or automobile accidents. If you are experiencing joint pain, or you have a high likelihood of experiencing pain in the future, it is important to proactively take care of your joints. Here are a few helpful tips for promoting optimum joint health for now and many years to come.

1. Keep Your Weight in Check

The more you weigh the more strain you place on your joints. Maintaining a healthy weight will lower the burden on your joints and decrease your odds for developing osteoarthritis in the future.

2. Maintain Muscle Mass

Our muscles act as natural shock absorbers for our joints. As we age, we lose muscle. As muscle diminishes, the joints take on more strain. For this reason, be sure to include weight training in your exercise regimen. Higher muscle mass also burns more calories, making it easier to keep your weight in check.

3. Lubricate Your Joints

Studies have shown that oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids like those found in fish are excellent for your joints as they decrease inflammation.

4. Care for Past Sports Injuries

If you have sustained a significant sports injury, especially in your knees, the likelihood of you developing joint pain is high. Be sure to work on that areas muscle strength and flexibility. Use a hinged knee brace or unloader knee brace to support ligaments that may have sustained irreparable damage.

5. Mix It Up

Do not rely on a single workout, but rather incorporate a number of different activities that work the body and joints in different ways. Some great low impact options include swimming, elliptical machines, yoga, pilates, biking, walking and hiking… just don’t forget the weight training.

6. Keep Moving

If you must stay still for long periods of time, be sure to move around every so often. For example, if you work at a desk, get up every hour and walk a bit. Be sure to stretch legs out fully. Keeping knees and hips at 90 degrees for long periods of time can hurt your body.

7. Take the Time to Relax

Relaxation is literally good for you. A stressed-out body is more likely to sustain injuries.

About MMAR Medical: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a premier supplier of high-quality medical products including a wide selection of medical orthopedic braces and supports, including ACL braces, unloader knee braces, patella stabilizers, and hinged knee braces. To find quality medical shoulder, knee, back braces and more, please visit MMAR Medical online.