If you developed the habit of cracking your knuckles in your youth, then there's a good chance you heard your mother snap at you, "Don't do that--it's bad for your joints!" or, "Don't do that--your knuckles will get swollen and ugly!"
Well, medical studies have discovered that cracking the knuckles in your hands regularly does not, in fact, cause arthritis or other serious medical conditions. But that does not change the fact that our joints do take a lot of wear-and-tear, which can eventually cause pain and discomfort.
So how can you take improved joint health into your own hands by making better daily decisions and seeking the right help? Let me give you some suggestions.
First, think about the ways you are exercising. If you are already experiencing joint pain in your hips, ankles, and knees, then jogging or hiking may be aggravating the ache. Try switching to low-impact exercise by using an elliptical machine or going swimming.
My gym has an indoor pool and spa which is comfortable to use year-round so even in the dead of winter, I can take a dip. Find out if your gym has something similar so that you always have the option.
Don't forget to incorporate gentle stretching into your daily routine. Yoga or tai chi can help you with this if you aren't sure what kind of regimen to follow. Isometric exercises can also be beneficial when it comes to strengthening your joints. Ask your doctor or personal trainer about these exercises to see what they recommend for your specific concerns.
Eat foods rich in healthy fatty acids or substitute them with a supplement. Flax seeds and fish contain omega-3s which can battle inflammation. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can ease mild joint pain, but be sure to consult with your doctor if you are on any prescription medications before taking anything else. For more severe pain, they might prescribe something stronger.
Chiropractic professionals are dedicated to developing a treatment plan to help with joint health and long-term pain relief. Most experienced chiropractors take a holistic approach to your well-being, meaning they focus on all aspects of your personhood--physical, emotional, mental, and so on--which means s/he will do everything they can to improve your condition, whether it's as simple as stress and mild aching or as serious as osteoarthritis.
Finally, do what you can to improve overall conditions. Flip-flops are unfailingly popular, but people who wear them nonstop often experience accelerated wear on their ankles, knees, and lower back, so opt for shoes that provide more support. Do your best at maintaining healthy posture, too.
Author Resource:-
Barnes Family Chiropractic (http://www.barneschiropractic.net/) is a premier chiropractor for Cape Coral and the surrounding area.
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