5 Ways to Support Your Joints as You Age
Standing up, sitting down, getting in and out of the car, participating in your favorite sports, or just sleeping at night can all become painful when you live with arthritis. Simple daily tasks take more time and, in some cases, cannot be done at all. Dealing with these challenges every day can be frustrating and feel hopeless. At some point, you want to throw your hands up and say you're done. That can make you want to replace the joint entirely. Joint replacement surgery may come up as an option, but the complications and risks that come with it can make the decision a tough one. This type of surgery can be costly, carries health risks, and involves a significant recovery period. Many surgeons and patients therefore explore more conservative measures first. If you and your doctor have decided the timing isn't right yet, there are several steps that may help you stay comfortable and active in the meantime. Any decision about surgery should be made with your physician.
1. Exercise
When you're in pain, we know the last thing you want to hear is the word "exercise." It seems to contradict your end goal: to not be in pain. It's easy to think that you should just rest your joints. However, the health of your knees depends on movement. Strong muscles support the joints and relieve pressure. Exercise helps keep tissues in the joint flexible, lubricated, and supplied with the nutrients that support healing. Too much rest will increase stiffness and may result in more discomfort. Low impact exercises, like walking, are gentler on the knee while still allowing you to gain the benefits of movement.
2. Braces
Depending on what type of arthritis you have, your doctor and physical therapist can recommend the correct brace for you. Braces can provide support, cushioning, and protection for your joints. A brace can also help keep the joint in alignment, which may mean less pain. On a surface level, braces also signal to other people that you are injured, so they can approach you and your affected joints with caution. Braces aren't a cure for joint issues; they are just one part of the picture.
3. Electrical stimulation
Electrical stimulation works by placing pads attached to an electric stim device on the muscles you want to strengthen. It encourages the weaker muscles to contract during exercise to build strength more quickly. The stim increases blood flow in the muscles and also stimulates the larger nerve fibers that can override the smaller nerve fibers that carry pain signals. Your physical therapist can tell you whether electrical stimulation is appropriate for your situation.
4. Hyaluronic acid injections
These types of injections are often used for knee arthritis. They supplement a naturally occurring lubricant that is often depleted in the joints of people who have arthritis. Your doctor may offer these shots as an option while you postpone joint replacement surgery. Results vary from person to person, and your doctor can explain the benefits and risks.
5. Joint Supplements
Adding an all-natural joint supplement that supports joint comfort and mobility is something many people discuss with their doctor as part of an active lifestyle. Joint supplements contain ingredients that have been studied for their role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response and supporting cartilage and joint structure. The goal of adding a joint supplement to your daily routine is to support everyday joint comfort, joint mobility, and normal joint lubrication. A supplement is not a replacement for medical care or for a procedure your doctor has recommended, and it is not a substitute for surgery when surgery is indicated.
Surgery to replace an arthritic joint is a big decision, and it isn't the only one available to you. Staying active, using a brace, or working with a physical therapist on options like electrical stimulation may help you manage day to day while you and your doctor weigh the timing. In the end, you may still need surgery, and that is a conversation to have with your physician. If you're looking to add a joint supplement to your daily routine and aren't sure which one is right for you, browse our joint supplements or contact our team.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement.