Reader's Digest Editors 27 July 2022
Joint problems may seem inevitable but there are things you can do to avoid them. Follow this advice for keeping joint problems at bay
It is easy to take good joint health for granted—your body is very resilient and can put up with a great deal of wear, tear and abuse without complaint. Over time, however, the cumulative effects may start to take their toll. Even if your joints feel strong and healthy now, you may be storing up problems for the future.
However, there are things you can do now to help prevent problems later down the line.
Apart from its musculoskeletal benefits, tai chi is also calming—the perfect exercise for stress reduction
The gentle, controlled movements of tai chi can lessen joint stiffness, improve flexibility and body posture and—by improving balance and coordination—will also reduce the risk of falls and fractures.
Supportive, well-cushioned shoes will protect the joints of your ankles, hips and knees from impact. Unstable or high-heeled shoes can affect your posture and gait and throw your body out of alignment.
A badly positioned computer or an awkward sitting posture while typing can put pressure on the joints in your spine and lead to neck or back ache. Take regular breaks and try to avoid repetitive movements.
Invest in ergonomic equipment, designed for efficiency and comfort
Excess weight puts more stress on your knee and hip joints, the most common candidates for replacement. Being just 1kg (2.2lb) overweight can increase your chance of developing osteoarthritis by as much as 10-15 per cent.
Strong muscles help to stop joints being pulled out of position and prevent injuries. But it is not just the size of your muscles that is important: flexible, balanced muscles keep joints supple as well as strong.
The essential fatty acid omega-3, most commonly found in oily fish, helps to lubricate joints, decrease inflammation and may even build muscle.
Cycling puts less pressure on your joints than running
It's always good to stay active but some sports and hobbies may lead to joint problems. Try to vary your activities or use protective equipment where appropriate. Cycling puts less pressure on your joints than running, for example, and knee pads can protect your knees while gardening.
A qualified podiatrist can check the joint alignment in your feet, knees and hips, as well as your posture.
Read more: How to fix joint pain
Read more: The dos and don'ts of back pain
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