Stop Joint Stiffness With Exercise And Therapy
Joint pain, aches and stiffness can occur at any age but are more prevalent in the elderly. Causes can vary but in most cases the remedy is similar. For example, you can ease or stop joint stiffness with low intensity exercises, physical therapy and occupational therapy as well as a healthy diet. Movement is crucial in keeping your joints mobile.
If you experience joint pain or stiffness, be sure to see a doctor who can rule out less common causes. What follows is general guidance on the benefits of physical therapy and exercise in easing pain and keeping you mobile.
What Causes General Joint Stiffness?
As we age, our bodies undergo a degree of wear and tear, including in the joints, tendons, and ligaments. This can lead to inflammation, which in turn can cause aches and pains in the joints. Any joint may be affected – ankles, elbows, fingers, shoulders, hips, knees, etc. To stop joint stiffness, it’s important first of all to understand possible causes and follow the advice of specialists.
One of the main, and most common, causes is osteoarthritis. Other causes can be previous injuries, surgery, repetitive movements leading to overuse, hormonal imbalances, rheumatoid arthritis, or obesity. Joint pain can occasionally be the result of gout, cancer, or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Stop joint stiffness with regular exercises
The general rule is that keep moving!
While joint pain and achiness can come and go, it’s important, in most cases, to keep moving the affected area. This can be done safely with regular low-intensity exercises and targeted physical therapy. To stop joint stiffness may also require lifestyle changes. If you are used to a sedentary lifestyle, smoke, and drink alcohol, you’ll need to change your habits.
Aerobics, done safely, gets the heart and lungs working and delivers oxygenated blood to stiff joints. Exercise is also a great stressbuster, and that’s important, too, as stress can aggravate your health issues, including joint pain and inflammation.
Gentle exercise helps keep the joints flexible, lubricated, and can ease or stop joint stiffness. At first, exercise may be painful but it’s vital to keep the joints moving. Tai Chi, with its smooth movements, and yoga, with its stretching routines, can be highly beneficial. Engaging in other pleasant physical activities such as walking, or swimming can also help stop joint stiffness.
Physical therapy for joints
Physical therapy aids the body’s natural healing with tailored, restorative therapy to reduce joint pain. Properly supervised, it focuses on the most painful joints but also has a holistic, even a social, component.
Therapists can provide advice on the importance of engaging in enjoyable physical activities, preferably in the company of others. These may include cycling, walking, jogging and even dancing, depending on each person’s capacity and preferences. Physical therapy is a proven treatment that can dampen or stop joint stiffness.
We at Fairview Adult Day Care Center in Brooklyn NY offer physical and occupational therapy to those with joint issues. If you are looking for an elderly and adult day care center that also offers rehabilitation therapies, gym, medical care and fun activities, look no further. Contact us today for more information.
This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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