There are few things as frustrating as aching joints. Discomfort can arise from a few different sources, such as overuse, underuse, injuries, compensations or inflammation. Here are a few things that you can take personal control of to help limit discomfort.
Find Successful Motion: We are designed to move. Movement increases blood flow, nervous system activity, and keeps muscles fluid and responsive. Achy joints can be frustrating and may even prevent us from moving the way we want to. That shouldn’t stop us from moving altogether. If dynamic movement is bothering your low back, try gentle static stretches. If running is bothering your hip pain, try power walking to decrease the impact. Walking hurts your knees? How about a stationary bike or the pool? The human body provides countless options for mobility. Stay diligent.
Decrease Internal Inflammation: A lot of us don’t realize the impact that diet has on our internal mechanisms. Eating a diet of processed foods, carbohydrates, and sugars can compromise our digestive system and set off systemic inflammation responses. For some of us this could mean acid reflux or fatigue. For many, it’s symptoms of arthritis and joint discomfort. Sure, lots of us deal with old injuries, they’re a part of our story we can no longer control. What we can control is keeping our inflammation markers down through a healthy diet.
Lose a Few Pounds: Healthy joints need motion, fluid, and nutrients. Blood flow to our extremities occurs through regular motion and a healthy cardiovascular system. Being overweight means our body has more ground to cover. Not only is movement more difficult, but our cardiovascular system has to work double to make sure fluid is circulating throughout the body. Losing a few pounds takes a significant load off our joints, lessens the load on our heart, and makes fluid transfer easier and smoother. Get those five pounds people!
