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How to Stay Flexible and Maintain Joint Health through Physical Fitness
from: Pat MoauroEach year many new people are diagnosed with arthritis, a debilitating condition. Arthritis is defined as the inflammation of a joint, but it can certainly seem more painful than that. It can cause searing pain that leaves the body feeling weak for days.
As people age, arthritis tends to develop from the extended daily uses of the body. Other things though can contribute to the development of arthritis. Being overweight, having bad posture, and serious injuries can all speed the development of this condition. Arthritis can cause the cartilage to wear out and thin. The rubbing of the bones causes irritation and inflammation.
While this pain can sometimes be relieved through rest, the patient can also sometimes experience pain that seems never ending. However, exercise can strengthen the muscles near the joint which helps to reduce joint stress. While exercise is necessary for everyone, it's essential for those with arthritis. While it's probably not a good idea to engage in the most rigorous forms of exercise with arthritis, physical activity isn't out of the question. For those without arthritis, exercise can help prevent this disease.
There are several exercises that can help maintain joint health. Bicycling tends to be helpful to most joints, and can be done by people of all ages. Stretching is another exercise related activity that can help with joints. Stretching every day can add flexibility. Stair climbing can strengthen the lower body joints. One of the best things about stair climbing is the fact that stairs are everywhere and free to climb.
Swimming is a great way to warm up all of your joints. Water aerobics is even better. This is one of the best possible exercises for people who are already experiencing joint pain, as the water cushions the movement and causes no pain.
Exercise isn't the only way to strengthen joints. You can do several other everyday things to help your joints. Start by ensuring you're at your ideal body weight. Obesity or even being a few pounds overweight causes undue wear and tear on your joints. Stress in the joints only leads to pain in future years. Also watch your posture. Appropriate body posture can protect joints from unnecessary stress.
When you must lift or carry something heavy, use your legs. This can help take the stress away from your smallest joints and muscles. Be sure to build in rest periods. Too much activity at any one time isn't good for your delicate joints and muscles. Pay attention to what your body is telling you. If you feel tired, rest. If you're in pain, stop what you are doing. Ignoring your body can only lead to overuse and injury. Staying in one place for long periods of time causes your muscles to shorten and stiffen. Move around as often as possible. Start slowly and build gradually. Your body needs time to acclimate to new activities. If you plan to engage in a dangerous activity, wear safety equipment. Knee pads while you're roller-blading can help reduce damage in a fall. If a job is too big for you, be sure to ask for help. Carrying too much weight or reaching too high causes further stress to your joints.
Several health supplements offer promising help with joint health. Not all are miracle cures, but few cause any side effects. Glucosamine and chondroitin are used to build cartilage. If you take it as a supplement, it may help your joints heal. However, at least two to four months may pass before it takes effect. Side effects can include increased insulin levels, so diabetics should avoid it altogether.
Omega 3 fatty acids, which reduce joint problems, can be found in fish and flax seed oil. However, Omega 3 can interact with medications, so consult your doctor first. SAM, which is S-adenosyl-methionine, can be used to build other coenzymes like dopamine or glucosamine. It both rebuilds and protects joints, but it changes the properties of any psychoactive medication you may be on, including antidepressants. As always, check with your doctor before you take anything he hasn't prescribed.
Senior Sexual Fitness News
Calendar
Submissions for "Community Calendar" are required two weeks preceding the date of publication. Send to: Mary Ann Bottari, Pioneer Press, 3701 W. Lake Ave., Glenview IL 60026; mbottari@pioneerlocal.com. Information may be faxed to (847) 486-7495.
Read more...Community Calendar
Submissions for Community Calendar are required 14 days preceding the date of publication. Send to: Niles Managing Editor, Pioneer Press, 3701 W. Lake Ave., Glenview IL 60026. Information may be faxed to (847) 486-7495 or e-mailed to mbottari@pioneerlocal.com.
Read more...Now Wellbeing
- Alexandra Neighbourhood House at Crescent Beach events: Every Wednesday is Seniors Hot Lunch, noon to 2 p.m. Register at 604-592-6970. - Scottish Country Dance classes: new members welcome, no partner needed, from September to April at Sullivan Hall, 6303 152nd St., Surrey.
Read more...Community Links
Reach your community and publicize non-profit, community, or club activities here and on the Internet, at www.langleyadvance.com which includes the link Submit an Event.
Read more...Bulletin Board published Wednesday, July 28, 2010
The Brookings-Harbor Lions Club meets at the VFW Hall, at the corner of Pacific Avenue and Pioneer Road, Brookings, at 6 p.m. for a potluck dinner. A meeting will follow at 7 when the club will discuss its strategy for the year and prioritize its goals. For information, call 541-469-4428.
Read more...Health happenings: July 27
Send information about free or low-cost health-related events open to the public one week ahead of publication. Information can be e-mailed to jmorreale@bradenton.com. Listings are due 10 days in advance.
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