Crisp Regional Tips for Maintaining Joint Health

Many people, as they get older, experience more joint pain. There can be many possible causes for this, but often it is simply the wear and tear our joints have experienced over time. There are a few things you can do to help alleviate pain and stiffness and keep your joints healthy.

Staying active is an important part of overall health, but some kinds of exercise can actually be damaging to joints. Over time, high impact exercises like running, or sports like basketball can cause strain on the joints. Lower impact exercises like swimming and cycling will allow you to get in a good cardio or strength-building workout without wearing down your joints.

Certain foods can have a significant impact on joint health. Omega 3’s found in fish can reduce inflammation, which is helpful for people with a joint disease like arthritis. If you aren’t a fan of seafood, you can also take a fish oil supplement for the same benefits.

In addition to fish oil supplements, glucosamine, gamma-linolenic acid, and calcium are all great supplements for joint health. Just remember to check with your doctor before you begin taking supplements, as some supplements may not be right for you or may conflict with a medication you are already taking.

Being overweight can put extra strain on your joints causing pain and weakness, especially in the hips and knees. Losing and maintaining a healthy weight is not only beneficial for joints, but for overall health.

Most adults spend the majority of their days sitting at a desk in front of a computer. Busy schedules make staying active difficult. When you sit still for too long, your joints can get stiff. Make a habit of getting up every so often and going for a walk or stretching out your muscles and joints.

Many offices are also implementing standing desks which allow people to move around a bit more while working.

Joint pain doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of getting older. These are all things people can do to prevent joint pain before they experience it or to help reduce it and increase joint health.