Osteoarthritis is a common complication and is a wear and tear reaction of the joints after years of use and misuse. It is normally an age related complication that worsens after the age of fifty in both men and women. It has also been known to afflict people of lesser ages especially those with heightened predisposing factors. It affects mostly the wrists, hand and knees. In women there are higher risks of spine and hips aches. The joint system is diverse and delicate and requires constant care. There are a variety of strategies that can be combined to ensure a healthy joint system devoid of constant aches and discomfort.
Maintain the ideal weight
Checking ones weight is the first step towards maintaining well preserved joints. There is a direct relationship between ones weight and the risk of developing joint problems later in life. Body’s weight falls heavily on the leg joints and hips and these are the most prone areas when it comes to joint problems. Consulting an expert in nutrition and will give you an answer of the most appropriate weight to maintain. Maintaining proper weight involves healthy eating. It is important to eat a lot of vegetables and a diet rich in the essential fatty acids.
Regular and proper exercising
Regular exercising aids in maintaining a level of weight that is sustainable to the joint systems. It also aids in maintaining healthy joints. To reap the maximum benefits when exercising it is crucial to take a comprehensive approach so that each and every section of the body is exercised. There are various types of exercises and each has its own benefits. The high impact exercises assist in the building of the bones and enable them to grow strong. This type of exercising however is not ideal for frail people or those who have had bone problems before. Example of this includes dancing, stair climbing and rope jumping amongst others. The low impact exercises include aerobic and fast walking and they are important towards maintaining strong bones. They are ideal for people who cannot engage in extensive exercises. The importance of exercising is to ensure that bones grow stronger. Bones, like other tissues, respond to strains and help achieve a balanced peak bone mass. Bone loss starts occurring after the third decade and constant exercising can help prevent this. According to the NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center, these exercising activities maintain a sturdy muscular system that enables an individual to maintain balance and coordination reducing risks of having fall related complications.
Maintaining proper posture
The shoulders and the back are some of the most important parts of the body and they require close attention. They are very sensitive and can be affected by how one positions himself when engaging in any activity including lying down. To maintain a good posture requires effort and some form of informal training. Joint health can be affected by poor posture due to unnecessary strains. The spine and the muscle tissues must maintain a proper balance for them to be able to hold the body well. With continued improper posture and alignment the balance is affected and some parts of the joints and bones are left to shoulder more weight than their capacity. This straining leads to damages and serious injuries that might be felt later in life.
Proper clothes and shoes
Tight high heeled shoes and tight clothes that strain the body have been found to be the main reasons why most women suffer from joint related complications. They strain the body and prevent the proper expansion of the joints and bones. They inhibit nerve and muscle movements and hamper the proper circulation of the blood. Ligaments are important tissues as far as joints and bones are considered; any factor impeding on their growth has adverse effects on the joint system. It is hence crucial to stick to comfortable wears avoid shoes that can deform the body or expose it to injuries.
Healthy eating
Weak joints are as a result of lifestyle factors. There is no one single approach to healthy joints but healthy diet has been found to impact a lot on the general health. Fish oil has been touted as amongst the best when it comes to reducing joint inflammation. There is no scientific research to ascertain the contribution of fish oil towards healthy joints but research has posited that there may be a mild connection but it has to be combined with other strategies. A healthy skeletal system no doubt affects the joints positively. Calcium is the key ingredient towards this and various calcium supplements are usually administered to address bone problems. A high intake of calcium in diets is advocated for women suffering from osteoporosis. Calcium is found in large quantities in milk and other daily products. For those allergic to dairy products there are calcium supplements available in the market that have been touted to be better alternatives. Glucosamine sulfate is one such supplement that has been found to be effective especially in treating osteoarthritis. It is also particularly useful in maintaining healthy knee joints.
Wearing protective gears
Most of the complications that are joint related emanate from falls or other types of injuries sustained in the workplace or during sports. It is hence crucial that protective gears such as wrist and knee pads are worn every time when engaging in vigorous outdoor activities. Wearing helmets when cycling for instance can go a long way in preventing these injuries. It is also important not to overwork the body by engaging in activities that your body cannot handle. Intense activities such as weight lifting should be taken up gradually to ensure the body reacts in a positive manner.
Constant check ups
A regular visit to a chiropractors and orthopedics can help diagnose joint problems before they escalate. Any discomfort should be reported to the doctors for a thorough check up. Constant consultation will also be crucial for advice on what to do and what to avoid ensuring healthy joints.
Joints are indeed crucial in maintaining the skeletal and muscular system of the body. Maintaining a healthy joint system ensures the various body parts functions as they should. This can be achieved through proper exercising, appropriate posture, proper diet and constant check up to ensure problems are detected early before they escalate.
