How Does Aging Affect Joint Health?
Affect Joint Health
In the past, many people have considered joint pain a normal part of aging. However, there are steps you can take to improve your joint health and ease pain as you get older. The musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons, is the body’s support structure. It provides movement and balance, and it protects vital organs. When the joints are healthy, they function well. But as you age, the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down, and this can lead to joint pain and other problems.
Most people experience chronic pain from osteoarthritis, which occurs when the protective cartilage that cushioned the ends of your bones wears down, causing bone to rub directly against each other. This can cause inflammation, and the bones may form bone spurs to help protect themselves. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of joint pain in adults, and it typically affects the knees, hands, hips and feet. Pain from this condition can increase your risk of falls. People with painful knees are 53 percent more likely to fall, and those with painful hips have a 74 percent higher chance of falling. Pain from these conditions can also cause weaker bones, which puts you at a greater risk of fractures.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are supplements that can improve the lubrication of your joint health. Studies have shown that these supplements can decrease joint stiffness and improve mobility. They are available in tablet, liquid and capsule forms. Choose a glucosamine and chondroitin product with 100 percent pure ingredients, without any fillers or artificial flavors or colors.
How Does Aging Affect Joint Health?
Another way to help with joint health is to exercise regularly. Regular movement will strengthen the muscles that support your joints and keep them flexible. Try low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming and cycling. Consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist to create an exercise routine that suits your needs.
In each cell of your body, genes control how your tissues work. Genes contain instructions for how to make proteins – large molecules that do many important jobs in your body, including keeping your joints healthy. Each person gets half of their genes from their mother and the other half from their father. The genes they receive are stored in chromosomes, long structures inside cells that carry DNA. The DNA is a person’s unique genetic fingerprint, and it is what gives them their physical characteristics and the chances of developing certain health conditions, such as osteoarthritis (OA).
In addition to exercising, a nutritious diet is important for joint health. You need to eat foods that are rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation. Include nuts, seeds and fish in your diet to boost these nutrients.
You can also help with your joint health by drinking enough water. Your joints are made up of 70%-80% water, and keeping them hydrated helps keep them lubricated. Finally, try to avoid inflammatory foods like sugar, refined carbohydrates, red meat and processed food. You can find healthy recipes to cook delicious meals for your family and friends online.