JOINT HEALTH MATTERS. When our joints are healthy, we don't notice. This is to say that we can move, play and live without any regard for impairment. However, when our joints hurt, we begin to take notice. We FEEL our joints, we reduce our desire to move, and when we move, we are guarded, or worse, in pain.
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HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY JOINT HEALTH?
Here are a few steps you can take:
1- Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight places extra strain on your weight-bearing joints, such as your knees, ankles, hips, and back.
2- Keep moving. Staying active can help to reduce stiffness in your joints. (If weight bearing movement hurt, try non weight bearing like a stationary bike, or swimming)
3- Stay strong. (healthy muscles, connective tissue and nervous system contribute to joint health)
4- Use correct posture. (both static posture i.e. ergonomics and dynamic posture i.e. good alignment when moving)
5- Don't forget about diet/hydration. (an anti-inflammatory diet and good probiotics help to maintain healthy joints)
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THE SHOULDERS
Computer work, leading to rounded postures, and repetitive movement patterns (i.e. in sport or activity) are very common inputs which lead to shoulder dysfunction. A highly effective strategy to help the shoulders involves keeping mobile and strong in these areas (including the hands). The FOLLOWING program offers some strategies to mobilize and strengthen these areas of the body.
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These examples are suitable for the majority of people, however PROPER EVALUATION MUST BE PERFORMED BY A QUALIFIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL BEFORE ENGAGING IN ANY HEALTH RELATED PROGRAM. CONSULT WITH YOUR FAMILY DOCTOR PRIOR TO BEGINNING THIS, OR ANY OTHER HEALTH PROGRAM. IF YOU EXPERIENCE DISCOMFORT, STOP AND TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR OR A HEALTH COACH.