Improving Joint Health Naturally

As we age, our joints can begin to deteriorate and cause us the pain we know as arthritis. Though some of us are more genetically predisposed to arthritis than others, we can all take steps to making sure that the effects of arthritis on our bodies are minimal. Though there are plenty of supplements and joint health boosting drugs available on the market, it's important to know that there are also natural solutions that you can pursue in conjunction with whatever medications your doctor may prescribe.

Stay In Motion

No matter how bad your arthritis pain is, you should try to keep exercising as best you can. Exercise helps to keep your joints flexible and strengthen your muscles so that they can hold weight more easily. Exercise is touted as being able to reduce joint pain, increase joint flexibility, and increase overall mobility. Weight bearing exercises and joint specific exercises may have the most effect on your joint health. If you are not yet afflicted with arthritis, simple weight bearing exercises like daily walks or water aerobics can help to stave off joint problems. If, however, you already are feeling pain in your joints from arthritis, you may want to see a physical therapist who can design an exercise regimen to meet your specific joint strengthening needs and help you to increase your range of motion in problem joints.

Eat Well

What we put into our bodies has a major effect on how our bodies perform. Eat a diet that is nutritionally rich, with lots of fruits and vegetables and a healthy amount of good fats. Good fats, like those found in omega-3 fatty acids and flax seeds, can help to lubricate joints and ease some joint pain. Eating fatty fish like salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, as are some vegetables and cooking oils. Be careful to avoid saturated fats, though, as these can increase inflammation, stiffness, and pain.

Don't Slack On Medical Help

Be sure to see your doctor or orthopedic specialist regularly to make sure you are doing everything you can be to help prevent or lessen your arthritis symptoms. Assess your joint health regularly and always be sure to tell your doctor if any new joint pain arises. Depending on the advancement of your condition and how well you are responding to treatments, exercise, and diet, your doctor may suggest that you see an orthopedic specialist or physical therapist if you aren't already.

Kitchi Joyce is the Director of Administrative Services for OrthoAtlanta, a full service Atlanta orthopedic practice specializing in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine. OrthoAtlanta has multiple locations around the Atlanta Metro area where doctors, physicians and medical staff help patients live and perform at the peak of their physical ability. Decades of experience, education and research means that all branches of Atlanta orthopedics are covered, from cartilage restoration to spine care and sports medicine. Learn more about Atlanta orthopedics at http://www.orthoatlanta.com/services/orthopaedic/.

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