There are many things you can do to keep your joints healthy and supple.
Active Living is the key
Exercise Controlled movement exercises can help to maintain suppleness in joints, while strengthening exercises can help muscles to take the pressure off joints. Swimming is a great aerobic exercise to help improve overall fitness and help control weight. You should talk to your doctor before exercising, he may be able to give advice on the best exercises for you Lose some weight Any excess weight you can shed will help to relieve strain on delicate joints. And of course, losing weight may encourage you to be more active too.
Improve your diet
A healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and veg is to be recommended. More specifically, oily fish like sardines, kippers, mackerel and fresh tuna contain omega-3 essential fatty acids which have been shown to help maintain joint mobility and suppleness.
Some general good advice
A simple check list for healthy joints would include the following:
1. Maintain your ideal body weight - the more you weigh, the more strain you put on your joints. 2. Move your body - exercise protects joints by strengthening muscles. 3. Stand up straight - good posture protects the joints in your neck, back, hips and knees. 4. Use the big joints - when lifting or carrying something use the largest and strongest joints and muscles. 5. Pace yourself - alternate periods of heavy activity with periods of rest. 6. Listen to your body - ensure you don't overdo it. 7. Don't be static - changing positions regularly helps keep muscles and joints supple. 8. Don't be a weekend warrior - don't take on activities that your body isn't prepared for. Start new activities slowly until you know how your body will react 9. Wear safety equipment - and make sure it fits! 10. Ask for help - don't take on a job that's too much for one person!
Exercise Controlled movement exercises can help to maintain suppleness in joints, while strengthening exercises can help muscles to take the pressure off joints. Swimming is a great aerobic exercise to help improve overall fitness and help control weight. You should talk to your doctor before exercising, he may be able to give advice on the best exercises for you Lose some weight Any excess weight you can shed will help to relieve strain on delicate joints. And of course, losing weight may encourage you to be more active too.
A healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and veg is to be recommended. More specifically, oily fish like sardines, kippers, mackerel and fresh tuna contain omega-3 essential fatty acids which have been shown to help maintain joint mobility and suppleness.
