Do you know people who seem to defy the stereotypes of ageing – especially when it comes to pain? They may have occasional aches. But they’re moving through life with zest well into their retirement years.
What’s their secret to aging so comfortably?
Ask them – and you may find they rely on positive steps like theseto help prevent or reduce muscle and joint discomfort. And their secrets may work for you as well.
- Keep Moving: It’s important to stay as active as possible. Even people who have arthritis pain benefit from keeping joints limber and muscles strong. If you’re just starting an exercise program, begin gradually – and build from there.
- Exercise All Your Options: Find activities that you enjoy. You’ll be more likely to stay active if you like what you’re doing. If you’re looking for an aerobic activities that are gentle on the joint, consider biking, swimming and walking. Stretching exercises, including yoga and tai chi, can improve flexibility and may help ease or prevent pain. Most healthy adults should aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week. Make strength exercises part of your routine as well.
- Balance Action With Rest: Some downtime is important too. Schedule regular rest days between workout sand other physical activities, so that your body can rejuvenate and repair tissue.
- Meet Weighty Issues Head On: It isn’t fun math: each pound you gain adds nearly 4 pounds of stress to your knees. And it increases the pressure to your hips 6 times over. If you’re carrying excess weight, talk with your doctor about way to lose it. It’s a big step for better health – and you may have less pain too.
- Protect And Preserve: An injured joint hurts – and it’s also more likely to develop osteoarthritis . So guard your joint from damage. If you play sports, wear protective gear. And when lifting, have your own back – by using proper technique.
- Accentuate The Positive: People who focus their attention on what they can do, rather than what they can’t, may cope better with pain. If your limitations are getting you down, make more room in your life for activities – and people – that make you feel energized, happy and upbeat.
- Listen To Your Body: If you have a nagging injury or suddenly develop pain that limits your movement, stop what you’re doing – and talk with your doctor.
Source: UnitedHealthcare.com