Joint Health 101: Things to Know About Your Joints

​Joints are critical body components that help us move easily. During daily tasks and activities, joints give extra support and, thus, are prone to misuse and overuse. 

Because of their function, we must be mindful of how we use our joints on a daily basis. Read on to discover the things that are harming your joints, and how to avoid them.

Added Weight

Heavy loads can cause joint damage. Every pound you gain puts four pounds to your knees. The back, hips, and feet are all in pain. As a result, there is harm, pain, and suffering. Obesity is associated with inflammation. This can result in joint stiffness, soreness, and edema, particularly in your hands.

Bad Footwear

Outdated footwear provides no foot or ankle support, which could be bad for your knees, hips, and spine. Thankfully, ankle sprains can be avoided by wearing high-top basketball sneakers. Excessive cushioning or arch support obstructs correct foot movement and causes pain.

Excessive Gadget Use

It can cause elbow, wrist, back, and shoulder pain. It's not your posture that's the issue; it's that you're holding it for too long. The muscles have been overworked. It puts strain on the back discs. Raise your arms in a comfy chair to relieve stress on your shoulders and neck. Every hour, move.

Additionally, your thumb may curl due to tendonitis. Excessive phone use also harms the neck and shoulders. Muscle tension increases with every inch your head dips. It is similar to carrying the weight of five heads on your neck if your chin touches your chest.

Knuckle Cracking

Knuckle cracking causes the eruption of joint fluid bubbles in the hands. As such, stopping might be a good idea. This motion, according to research, may cause your hands to enlarge and decrease your grip strength.

Muscle Misuse

When little muscles are overworked, the joints suffer. To open heavy doors, use your shoulder instead of your fingers. To lift big objects, bend your knees and use your leg muscles. Use your palms to carry stuff rather than your fingertips.

Nicotine Habit

Kicking the nicotine habit will benefit your joints as well. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the bones and spinal discs. It prevents calcium absorption, which strengthens bones. It degrades the bone-building hormone estrogen. It prevents bone development. All of this weakens joints and increases the likelihood of a hip fracture.

Over Packed Bag

Overpacking may result in neck and shoulder pain. A heavy shoulder throws off your balance, strains your back, and makes it difficult to walk steadily. Additionally, carrying weight on one side will strain your muscles and degrade your joints, and may result in negative effects if you do this every day.

Poor Form and Posture 

Cycling, jogging, and tennis are all sports that need repetitive movements. Incorrect form places tension on the body in the wrong places. Tennis elbow can be caused by using incorrect form or overuse of the muscles.

Moreover, work with your body rather than against it. Good posture is essential, while slouching in a chair causes muscle and joint fatigue. Make sure you keep your back straight and your shoulders down.

Skipping Stretching Session

Stretching on a regular basis might help to strengthen muscles and tendons, making them more adaptable. This improves muscular function and joint mobility, which is required for healthy joints.

Stomach-sleeping

Stomach-sleeping may help with snoring, but it will not help with your body. The spine is compressed when lying on one's stomach. Your head will be facing the same direction for longer periods of time. This puts strain on the joints and muscles.

Strength Training Shortcuts

As we age, bones shrink and become frailer. Strength training prevents bone loss and encourages bone development. As such, you should build up the muscles and bones to stabilize your joints and limit the risk of injury.

Conclusion

Beyond being active and using our bodies, we must also know how to use our bodies correctly. Indeed, taking care of our joints is more than functionality. Healthy joints also mean longevity, so we must refrain from doing anything that will harm them.

Are you looking for a joint doctor? Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists is a team of professional doctors and licensed physicians who can help you address and treat your joint problems. Schedule an online consultation today!