Tips to Keep Joints Healthy

The human body has 360 joints. Joints give us the ability to move our bodies in a variety of ways – without them, we wouldn’t be able to walk, run, dance, climb stairs, or perform any number of other motions. With this in mind, it’s crucial to protect your joints so that you can keep moving comfortably for many years to come. 

Our top tips for supporting the health of your joints include:

Stay at a Healthy Weight.

Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best steps that you can take toward better joint health. Excess body weight increases the impact on your joints with every step that you take. Over time, this added impact can speed up joint degeneration, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation. By shedding extra pounds, you can lighten the load on your joints to prevent problems down the line. 

Focus on Muscle Strength. 

Strengthening your muscle can provide added support for your joints and ultimately reduce the risk of joint damage. Additionally, a strong chest, back, and abdominal muscles can help prevent falls and sports injuries that could lead to joint problems. So, consider adding strength training to your exercise routine, making sure to start out slow and pace yourself. 

Eat a Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Diet.

Eating a balanced diet rich in foods that fight inflammation like leafy vegetables, fruits, fatty fish, and nuts can support the health of your joints, along with the rest of your body. Additionally, making sure to consume plenty of bone-strengthening nutrients like calcium and vitamin D is important for your joints. Whether through your diet, supplements, or, in the case of vitamin D, the sun, these nutrients can help you maintain a healthy bone density and reduce your risk of fractures. 

If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, schedule an appointment at Suncoast Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine for an evaluation. We diagnose and treat a broad range of joint conditions.