As the Baby Boomer generation ages, there has been a large increase in the incidence of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of age-related aches and pains in bones and joints, and is thought to affect over 46 million adults.
In addition to the normal wear and tear of joints, Baby Boomers increase the stress on theirs by overuse and obesity. Boomers are much more active than previous generations and their aches and pains may actually be from overuse as running and jumping can easily damage tendons, cartilage, or bone. There’s also an increased incidence in arthritis among Baby Boomers who tend to be more overweight than previous generations, and obesity is a risk factor for arthritis.
Despite the fact that too much of a good thing can hurt your joints, exercise in moderation is a beneficial factors in arthritis treatment. It preserves mobility, strengthens the muscles that support the joints and helps keep weight under control.
1. Maintain your ideal body weight. The more you weigh, the more stress you are putting on your joints, especially your hips, knees, back and feet.
2. Move your body. Exercise protects joints by strengthening the muscles around them. Strong muscles keep your joints from rubbing against one another, wearing down cartilage.
3. Stand up straight. Good posture protects the joints in your neck, back, hips and knees.
4. Use the big joints. When lifting or carrying, use largest and strongest joints and muscles. This will help you avoid injury and strain on your smaller joints.
5. Pace yourself. Alternate periods of heavy activity with periods of rest. Repetitive stress on joints for long periods of time can accelerate the wear and tear that causes OA.
6. Listen to your body. If you are in pain, don’t ignore it. Pain after activity or exercise can be an indication that you have overstressed your joints.
7. Don’t be static. Changing positions regularly will decrease the stiffness in your muscles and joints.
8. Forget the weekend warrior. Don’t engage in activities your body for which your body isn’t prepared. Start new activities slowly and safely until you know how your body will react to them. This will reduce the chance of injury.
9. Wear proper safety equipment. Don’t leave helmets and wrist pads at home. Make sure you get safety gear that is comfortable and fits appropriately.
10. Ask for help. Don’t try to do a job that is too big for you to handle. Get another pair of hands to help out.
Taking time to protect your joints will benefit you in the long run, and if necessary, advances in joint replacement have enabled people to live active lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment