You gaze longingly out the window, becoming entranced by the rapidly falling snow. Moments later you find yourself out in the garage, dusting off the old Rossignols and sighing with nostalgic frustration. What you wouldn’t give to take a couple runs on a powder day.
Next to the skis, you find a tennis racket with a few missing strings, out-of-date running shoes and a slightly deflated basketball. These remnants prove to be regular reminders of the joint pain that has sidelined you for quite some time.
Our joints allow mobility, which enables us to walk, run and sit; not to mention ski, swing, jump and do any of our other favorite activities. So for those of us with joint pain, we know how limiting joint conditions can be, which is why it is important to be educated on the causes and treatments available. We have compiled seven very important things to know about joint pain to help keep you healthy, happy and active.
- Arthritis- Simply put, arthritis is an inflammation of the joints. However, there are many different types of arthritis—the two most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It’s important to know the difference to approach an effective treatment plan.
- Obesity- If you are overweight or obese, this extra weight places a large strain on your joints, especially the weight-bearing joints. Knees, hips and facet joints take a real beating and additional weight can cause joint pain, which is why it’s best to maintain a healthy weight.
- Aging- Like most things in life, joints can wear out too. Joints often become stiff and less flexible as fluid in the joints decreases. In the event that joints wear out, surgery and joint replacements are available.
- Physical Injury- For those who like to live life on the active, adventurous side, it can sometimes lead to joint pain. Common activities and sports often result in tears, breaks and fractures that need to be treated by an orthopedic specialist.
- Overuse- Repetitive stress injuries are a big culprit of joint pain. However, this doesn’t mean you have to be on the field to develop one. Something as simple as sitting at your office desk can cause joint pain.
- Knees and Hips- These joints are the most commonly injured, and the most likely to be replaced, as one of our Brigham City orthopedic surgeons explains. Since these joints carry most of your body’s weight, it is crucial to keep them in good working order.
- Diet and Exercise- Despite common misconceptions, exercise can help ease joint pain. Diet also plays an important role in combating joint pain.
Adequate joint care is crucial to staying active and leading a healthy lifestyle. Don’t keep living life on the sidelines. Get back to the moments you enjoy— explore the orthopedic procedures offered at our Brigham City hospital and schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic physicians. If you’re experiencing joint pain, call (855) 796-0593.