A joint ache is more than just irritation. The swelling and inflammation that accompany it can sap muscle strength and distort the ability to perform routine functions, like sitting up straight or going up the stairs. While physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals are always the go-to resources for pain management, there are a few simple things you can do on your own to reduce discomfort and spend the latter years of your life with less pain.
1. Increase Vitamin D Intake
Ample Vitamin D level ensures seamless movement of the joint, and it also neutralizes body inflammation. Levels get reduced with aging as the ability to hold onto the nutrient declines. Also, the lack of mobility makes it difficult to get out into the sun and absorb Vitamin D naturally from UV rays. Try increasing your intake of foods that are rich in Vitamin D such as egg yolks, salmon, fortified dairy, mushroom, and tuna to boost up your joint health.
2. Reduce Impact On Your Joints
When it comes to caring for aging joints, low impact is the way to go. That translates into avoiding activities that put the joints under pressure, like walking up the stairs and bending down in a squat position to pick things up. Fortunately, developments like the Perfect Sleep lift chair are helping seniors avoid burdening their joints. For instance, when they need to stand, advanced lift chairs give them the boost they need until they’re on their feet comfortably and assists lowering them safely to a sitting position. Also, recline technology ensures they’re able to rest on the chair itself instead of going to the bedroom, which is a blessing in disguise if your bedroom is situated upstairs.
3. Modify Your Diet
Reducing excess body fat and inflammatory response are two of the best ways to attain healthy joints and muscles. Diets rich in alkaline rich foods are known to reduce inflammation and provide the body with much-needed energy. Examples of such foods include avocados, apples, ginger, spinach, papaya, kale, and dates. Eliminating processed foods and saturated fat from your diet can also be beneficial. Opt for fruits, whole grains, nuts, fish, vegetables, and legumes. Additionally, consider adding joint supplements like glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and sulfate to enhance overall energy and boost joint health.
4. Leverage Padding
If you love exercising, that’s great. However, it’s important to remember that even minor falls can result in unanticipated joint damage. As unfashionable as you imagine it might appear, wearing elbow and knee pads while doing things like ice skating and running can protect your joints from injury during unexpected falls and accidents. For those with osteoarthritis and other degenerative bone diseases, even low-impact activities can be risky, so it’s best to drape the elbow and knee joints with some protective gear. Shoes that provide stability, comfort, and cushioning without sacrificing stability are also a good investment.
5. Reduce NSAIDs Consumption
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen relieve joint pain only temporarily and might cause more complex problems in your joints. Supplements like chondroitin offer more long-term advantages since they have agents that stimulate specialized cells to promote cartilage health. Before taking any over the counter drug, have a consultation with your doctor to see if these can replace the NSAIDs that you’ve been prescribed.
Joint health matters, so whenever you experience aching in your joints, consider the changes you need to make and follow the advice above to ease pain and discomfort.
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