Hopping, skipping and jumping (in moderation, of course) are good for your joints – ensuring they continue to function at an optimal level.
What are bones? They’re living tissue that constantly modifies itself according to a person’s activity. If there is little activity to stimulate the bone cells, they will become progressively weaker. It is the same with joints – they are designed to move – therefore healthy activity is required to keep them functional.
Your quality of life could be hindered significantly by not taking care of your bones and joints – that is why ER24 is urging people to live healthier lifestyles to manage and prevent conditions affecting musculoskeletal health.
Risk factors that contribute to the development of bone and joint problems include obesity, poor diet, smoking and lack of exercise. The most common bone and joint condition affecting people – besides injuries such as sprains, dislocations and fractures – is arthritis.
According to Dr Vernon Wessels from ER 24, there are two types of arthritis – osteoarthritis (cartilage damage developing due to abnormal load and wear-and-tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (a condition where a person’s own immune system is causing damage to the cartilage). Gout is also a very common inflammatory joint condition affecting adults.
“Cancer of the bone also occurs. Fortunately, this condition is not as common as the others mentioned. However, any abnormal growth or pain in bones – especially in children – should be seen to by a doctor,” said Wessels.
The causes of joint and bone pain are generally easily treatable, but could have devastating consequences if left unchecked. That is why it is advisable that people seek immediate medical assistance with any new pain or stiffness in a joint not resolved within a day or two.
“For most cases, early treatment is effective. For causes that cannot be fully treated or prevented (like rheumatoid arthritis) assistance devices are available to enable patients to function on a day-to-day basis. In severe cases, joint replacement is an option for certain joints, such as the hip or knee,” Wessels said.
To ensure joint and bone health, an active lifestyle with moderate healthy exercise is advisable. To keep bones strong and healthy, exercise should be coupled with a balanced diet containing enough calcium, minerals and vitamins.
“But,” warns Wessels, “moderation is key. People should take care not to overstrain joints as this could lead to cartilage damage and eventually osteoarthritis. You should always maintain good posture and wear good quality, comfortable footwear,” he concluded.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
