Maintaining strong and flexible joints is crucial for enjoying a fulfilling and active life, especially as we age. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to protect your joints so you can remain mobile, independent, and free from chronic pain.
Kadie E. Leach, MD, is an internal medicine specialist with a busy practice here in the metropolitan area of Washington, DC. Dr. Leach has significant expertise in treating adults experiencing problems like diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis. She also dedicates her medical skill and training to helping prevent these chronic conditions.
Here, Dr. Leach shares five tips for safeguarding your joint health and overall well-being.
Regular physical activity is essential for joint health. However, those daily runs and other high-impact exercises may become too strenuous as you age.
Instead, Dr. Leach recommends focusing on low-impact exercises that offer similar benefits without placing excessive stress on your joints. Swimming, walking, cycling, tai chi, and yoga are excellent choices.
These activities also help strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints, providing better support and stability. Additionally, they improve joint flexibility and reduce the risk of developing arthritis and other joint-related issues.
If you’re under 40, your joints will also appreciate a workout strategy that switches out high-impact exercise with cycling or walking a couple of days every week. This schedule protects your joints from overuse as you age. Notably, tai chi and yoga are beneficial regardless of your age.
Carrying excess weight puts tremendous strain on your joints, particularly those in your knees, hips, and back. As you age, it becomes even more crucial to maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of joint-related conditions like osteoarthritis.
A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports a healthy weight and ensures your body receives essential nutrients for joint health. Dr. Leach can provide the information and assistance you need to maintain a healthy weight and diet.
Fortunately, maintaining a healthy diet, weight, and exercise routine also helps reduce your risks of diabetes, heart disease, and other preventable conditions. Get started today by scheduling a physical exam with Dr. Leach.
Simple changes to your daily routines can help protect your joints from unnecessary stress. For instance, bending your knees and using your leg muscles prevents back strain when you’re lifting heavy objects.
Also, your joints are made to move. Avoid sitting or standing in the same position for extended periods; take breaks and do light stretching to prevent joint stiffness. Use knee pads or cushions when gardening to prevent excess pressure on your knees.
Using assistive devices like jar openers and long-handled tools can also reduce joint strain during everyday tasks if you’re already experiencing the effects of osteoarthritis. Protect your wrists, elbows, and spine from damage with good ergonomics at work and home during screen time.
Depending on your overall health needs, Dr. Leach may recommend certain supplements to promote joint health and reduce inflammation.
For instance, glucosamine and chondroitin are popular for supporting joint function and cartilage repair. Omega-3 fats found in fish oil have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit joint health.
However, you must consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your regimen to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific needs.
Schedule a visit with Dr. Leach if you experience persistent joint pain, stiffness, or discomfort. Early detection and treatment of joint problems can significantly improve long-term joint health.
Dr. Leach can help by diagnosing the underlying cause of your symptoms and developing an appropriate treatment plan that may include physical therapy, medications, or other interventions.
You can enjoy an active and mobile life at any age. Schedule a visit with Dr. Leach today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.
