The new year brings new resolutions, and many of which include getting healthy and active, or starting something new. When beginning a new activity or exercise regiment, it’s important to take special consideration of your bones and joints. Orthopedic Associates’, Dr. Atiba Jackson, took some time to speak about some tips and precautions to take with any new activity to keep you safe, and out of the OR this year.
Some tips to protect your joints when beginning a new activity:
- Start slowly and gradually increase intensity: when starting a new activity, it's important to ease into it and not try to do too much too soon. This will help your joints adjust to the new demands being placed on them.
- Use proper technique: proper technique can reduce strain on your joints. Make sure you learn the proper form for any new activity you're starting, and don't be afraid to ask for guidance if you need it.
- Wear proper equipment: wearing the right shoes and other protective gear can help reduce the risk of injuries to your joints.
- Stretch before and after: stretching before and after physical activity can help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury to your joints.
- Listen to your body: if you feel pain or discomfort in your joints, take a break and give them a rest. It's important to pay attention to your body and not push yourself too hard.
If you have painful joints, it's important to choose activities that are low impact and gentle on your joints. Some good options include:
- Swimming: swimming is a great low impact exercise that can help improve cardiovascular health and strengthen muscles without putting much strain on your joints.
- Walking: walking is a simple, low impact activity that can be done anywhere. It's a great way to get some exercise and improve your overall health without putting much pressure on your joints.
- Yoga: yoga can help improve flexibility and strength as well as help reduce stress. There are many different types of yoga, so you should choose a class suitable for your fitness level and take advantage of modifications to ease any joint pain that you may have.
- Tai chi: Tai chi is a low impact Martial Art that involves slow, controled movements. It can be a great way to improve balance, flexibility, and muscle strength without putting too much strain on your joints.
- Biking: biking is a low impact exercise that can be done indoors or outdoors. It's a great way to get some cardiovascular exercise and improve your leg strength without putting too much pressure on your joints.
There are a few situations in which you should consider seeking the help of an orthopedist for joint pain or injury:
- If the pain is severe or persistent: if you’re experiencing severe or persistent joint pain, it's important to seek medical attention. An orthopedic doctor can help diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatment.
- If you have a joint injury: if you have sustained a joint injury, such as sprained ankle or dislocated shoulder, it's important to see an orthopedist for proper treatment.
- If you have chronic joint conditions: if you have a chronic joint condition, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, is important to see an orthopedist to manage your condition and prevent further joint damage.
- If you're experiencing joint deformity: if you're experiencing joint deformity, such as a bent finger, it's important to see an orthopedist for an evaluation and treatment.
- If you're having trouble performing daily activities: if joint pain is interfering with your ability to perform daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, it's important to see an orthopedist for evaluation and treatment.
Getting active can have an immeasurable impact on your overall health and daily life. To ensure your success and safety, please consult with your doctor before starting anything new or beginning a new routine. To make an appointment with one of our Orthopedic Providers call us at 800-824-9861.