The physiotherapists, chiropractors and other sports medicine specialists at our Toronto clinics dispense a great deal of advice on how to protect the joints of their clients. The joints are complex structures, and prone to many types of injuries and disorders.
But, that advice often comes when some damage has already occurred. Prevention, as they say, is better than a cure.
Here are some tips on how to maintain healthy joints over a lifetime.
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Keep moving – When there’s pain, such as if you live with arthritis, you may be tempted to cut back on physical activity. That’s a mistake. Staying active keeps joints more flexible, strengthens muscles, and eases stiffness.
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Listen to your body – If you start to feel pain while you’re working out or gardening, stop, and/or take measures to alleviate it. Learn about body mechanics, and where the weakest areas are, so you can avoid putting them under stress.
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Know your limits – It’s great to push yourself, and you can achieve some great breakthroughs in working out, sports, or other activities by doing so. But, you also have to learn your limits. Don’t push too far, and balance activity and rest.
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Strengthen the core and other muscles – Building and maintaining the strength of major muscle groups that surround and connect to your joints helps you maintain balance and flexibility, as well as helping you maintain full range of motion.
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Use available supports – If you are involved in any activity, including sports or everyday work, that entails repeated motions, or maintaining the same position, over long periods of time, learn where the stress is greatest, and find supports to help. That may involve appliances such as a back rest, wrist brace, or similar device.
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Choose low impact – When it comes to activities, look for low impact exercises and sports that are easy on your joints, such as cycling or swimming. Your Toronto physiotherapist and other sports medicine specialist can provide you with a customized exercise plan that takes your condition into account.
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Body mechanics – Learn about ergonomics, and the correct way of moving, whether it involves lifting heavy equipment or perfecting your tennis swing. The proper technique will give you balanced movement that minimizes stress on your joints.
Healthy joints will keep you mobile as you age, and maintain your quality of life. It can’t be emphasized enough that protecting your joints is crucial to healthy living and aging.
If you are experiencing any problems with any joint, or have related questions, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Toronto physiotherapy, chiropractic and sports medicine clinics today for a consultation.
Resources:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/ways-to-keep-your-joints-healthy-189256
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/joint-protection/16-joint-protection-tips
https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ss/slideshow-keep-joints-healthy
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