By Ali Manley, Women’s Health, Advocate BroMenn Medical Center
Why is bone health so important? Bones are a living, growing tissue that is continually refreshing itself, breaking down, and building up. They also provide support and allow us to move while protecting our brain, heart, and organs from injury, as well as store important minerals. Bones provide us with the mobility we need to remain independent and allow us to move freely; however, the importance of bone health often remains silent until a bone fracture occurs.
As they age, many people can start to feel pain and stiffness in their bones and joints. This is often caused by arthritis, or inflammation in the joints. Joints, where two or more bones come together, can also be damaged by one of the many different types of arthritis. With over 100 types of arthritis, children and even young adults can be affected by arthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear that breaks down different parts of a joint and is the most common form of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis can also follow as a result to a previous injury to the joint, so once a severe bone or joint injury occurs, it’s important to take caution in the types of activities performed. Ironically, being active can help prevent many types of bone diseases, including arthritis and osteoporosis. Physical activity is important for building bone — the more work the bones do, the stronger they get. This is why it is also important for kids to run and play while they are young and their bones are developing. It’s never too late to promote and improve your bone health: increasing the amount weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, and training with weights, along with making healthy, balanced food choices, and living a healthy lifestyle will all help keep your bones strong.
If you feel pain and stiffness in your joints, don’t hesitate to bring it up with your doctor. Waiting too long can cause your joints to become damaged beyond repair.
Keepin’ it Movin’, an informational evening all about joint health, will be held on Tuesday, June 24, from 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. There will be two physician presentations, light hors d’oeuvres, and clinical screening assessments for pain and range of motion provided by Advocate BroMenn Physical Therapy. Call 1-800-3-ADVOCATE (1-800-323-8622) to register today!
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