Tips for Healthy Bones and Joints

Tips for Healthy Bones and Joints

Because orthopedic conditions have such an enormous impact on our society, this decade has been designated as the Bone and Joint Decade. One out of every seven Americans is affected by a bone, joint, or muscle impairment, from arthritis to fractures and tennis elbow. Perhaps even more staggering is that half of all injuries in the U.S. are to the muscle and skeletal system.

To emphasize the importance of living a healthy and active lifestyle, Southern California Orthopedic Institute suggests a number of activities that contribute to bone, joint and muscle health for any age.

To keep YOUR bones, joints and muscles healthy:

• Eat a well-balanced diet. Eat a variety of foods, including grains, fruits and vegetables, nonfat or low-fat dairy products, or other calcium-rich foods and protein daily.
• Get at least 30 minutes of activity a day. See your orthopedist for suggestions in specific strength and weight-bearing activities to build and maintain bone mass.
• Lose weight. Excessive weight causes extra strain on your joints, particularly your knees, which can cause pain and greatly contribute to osteoarthritis.
• Exercise sensibly. Stretch and warm up your muscles to avoid strains and injuries while you exercise. If you have a previous joint injury, avoid exercises that are over-strenuous on your body.
• Get your supplements. Make sure you’re getting enough of the required vitamins, minerals and supplements to help reduce and prevent chronic joint pain. Calcium and vitamin C are essential to keeping your bones strong and healthy.

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