A Bone To Pick: Making a Conscious Effort to Care for Your Joints

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Joints are the connections between two bones that allow you to move freely, carrying out actions like turning your head, moving your fingers, bending your elbows or knees and twisting your hips. Soft tissue (a combination of cartilage and synovium) cushions the joints and is lubricated with synovial fluid to allow smooth motion without your bones rubbing against one another. It is said that there are around 360 joints in the average human body and maintenance of them is crucial for a comfortable and pain-free life. So how do you take care of all of them?

Rectify Problems Early On

So many people are reluctant when it comes to visiting their local GP. Often, individuals will turn a blind eye to problems, brushing them under the carpet until they are creating unbearable pain or sickness. Don’t let this happen. If you notice any stiffness or pain developing in your joints, seek out advice. As they say, prevention is better than cure. If you find that problems are advanced, contact a specialist. If you find that you are having problems with your elbows, a good Elbow Surgeon can work wonders. They will resolve the problem and put your body back at ease and out of pain. No matter what your problem, professionals will be able to improve it in some way.

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Exercise

Your joints are supported by your muscles. So, if we are to follow the logic, stronger muscles mean better-supported joints. Your joints are already under a lot of pressure. Especially your knees, spine, and hips, which support the majority of your body weight. So give them a helping hand by increasing your muscle mass. Opt for a weight training routine incorporating dumbbell squats, lunges, and press ups. Start with low weights and build up over time. Diving straight in the deep end could result in injury, which is the opposite of what you set out to do. If you are new to weight training, hire a personal trainer to create a personal workout plan and to monitor your progress. They will also ensure that you are using the right techniques.

Monitor Your Weight

Your joints support your bodyweight, so if you are excessively overweight, you are subjugating them to continuous pressure. This can only last so long before you start to notice and feel repercussions. Losing a few pounds will prevent wear and tear on your joints. So try out a healthier, more balanced diet and (as advised above) regular exercise. If your joints feel sore or painful, opt for low-impact exercise like swimming. The water will support your weight while you get a thorough, full body workout.

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Eat Well

Start eating with your joints in mind. This doesn’t just mean smaller portions and balanced meals. Maintain strong bones with plenty of calcium-rich foods, such as milk, cheese, and other dairy products. If you are lactose intolerant or vegan, don’t worry. Soy milk, broccoli, and kale are also rich in calcium. If all else fails, you can always consider taking supplements.

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