Arthritic/Joint Pain , sometimes referred to as Rheumatic Pain, is par for the course but a sensible outlook throughout our lives can make all the difference. No matter what your age, it is never too early or too late to start looking after your joints.
Joint Injury is something that we all experience, via falls, car accidents, sports injuries or repetitive body use/micro trauma. It is well known that injury to a joint increases the likelihood of wear & tear and the weight bearing joints in the back, hips and knees are usually most vulnerable so although staying mobile is essential it is best to choose your activities wisely therefore keeping your injury risk to a minimum.
Osteopathic Treatment can encourage joint flexibility, improve circulation and balance muscular tension to help keep the stresses and strains placed on the joints to a minimum and therefore potentially helping us to enjoy an active life. If treatment is backed up by the following self-help methods then benefit is often further magnified:
Posture is key but over time we have relaxed our attitude to staying upright, furniture has become more appearance focused than functionally considered and the advent of handheld technology has lead to us spending increasing amounts of time hunched forwards. Unless we limit these bad habits then our upper bodies will become increasingly vulnerable to repetitive strain. Please ask your Osteopath how you can minimise these postural pitfalls and see our Products Page for information on suitable pillows and mattresses.
Stretching is at least as important as exercise itself. Without stretching as we move or exercise the muscles we predominantly use become stronger and tighter than the rest, which unbalances our posture and limits our movement. A regular program of tailored to you stretches and exercises can be prescribed by your Osteopath to help you reduce the impact of these factors on your health.
Supplements are always a matter for discussion but a basic regime of Omega 3 Oils and Glucosamine has helped many people reduce their aches and pains allowing them to stay active and enjoy life long into their retirement. Please ask your Osteopath for details.
Diet is the cornerstone of ones defence against pain. Many everyday foods are thought to produce inflammation in the body which may therefore increase symptoms. Reducing sugars, alcohol, processed foods, gluten and dairy often results in positive health benefits but it is crucial that such changes are made slowly and under the advice of your practitioner.
Fibromyalgia sufferers may also receive benefit with regular gentle Osteopathic Treatment in conjunction with practitioner prescribed self-help methods. In this instance diet and supplementation become even more crucial as the need to reduce inflammation in the body is paramount.
Stress may also be a factor so it may be worth seeing our Stress Consultant for treatment and self-help advice. Please click this link for more information www.romneymarshosteopaths.co.uk/treatments/stress-consultant
If you are interested in viewing Kate’s video on Arthritis please press play:
