Our body has around 360 joints that really help us function everyday, and we’ll need them for some time – so responding to them is really important.
Like most components of our body, our joints can be damaged, wear out and work less effectively.
But there are numerous things we’ll do to try to prevent that happening.
What appear in our joints because we age
Joints are protected and cushioned from a combination of cartilage, synovial membranes and synovial fluid that provides lubricant to guarantee joints move smoothly.
As we get older, cartilage becomes thinner plus there is also less lubrication.
Ligaments that support our joints also lose flexibility, which aid joints feel stiffer.
But joint issues can happen when we are younger too, explains Geetha Soosay, of Osteopathy Australia.
Common joint health problems
Bursitis and tendonitis in many cases are caused by poor posture and prolonged periods of placed without a break.
Repetitive movements like typing, just a mouse or lifting boxes for example are also common causes or tendonitis or bursitis.
Bursitis is a inflammation connected with a small fluid-filled sac that may be a cushion between bone and soft tissue.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness and it most often affects shoulders, elbows, hips, knees and heels.
Tendonitis involves inflammation of tendons – the strong bands of tissue that attach muscles to bones.
It also is painful, swelling and joint stiffness.
“You can get sharp pain in front or side of your shoulder and limited movement,” says Geetha.
“So making it harder to perform day-to-day activities like doing increase protein intake bra, brushing hair or chilling out washing.”
What for you to do if you have joint problems
Geetha says you’ll want to get professional advice whenever you feel any joint.
“Get any pain properly diagnosed for purchasing the appropriate management to see what to do to prevent it in the future,” she says.
“A few simple changes will often make a difference.”
Top tips for taking care of your joints
Written by Sarah Marinos.
