Tips for maintaining healthy joints
- One of the best ways to avoid or reduce joint discomfort is by losing excess body weight. This is because less weight means less stress on your joints.
- Get moving. Sitting or standing all day can lead to stiff joints. Ideally and whenever possible, alternate between these two positions every 30 minutes.
- Remember to warm up and take time to cool down after each exercise to avoid injury and promote flexibility.
- If you’re having trouble staying motivated to work out on a regular basis, consider including music in your routine or training in a group. It’s inspiring, social, and builds self-esteem as you achieve your goals together.
How will I know if joint replacement is right for me?
Joint replacement may be an alternative when the pain is severe and prevents you from carrying out daily activities, working and sleeping. The decision to replace your hip will be made by you and your orthopedic surgeon, primarily based on the intensity of the pain and how it affects your life.
Hip pain and joint stiffness can get worse at certain times of the day or after certain activities such as:
- Walk
- To go upstairs
- Sit down and get up from a chair
- Put on shoes and put on socks
- Walking on uneven surfaces
- sexual activities
- Getting in and out of a car
People with arthritis may also have pain when resting, sitting in a chair, or lying down; which sometimes makes it difficult for them to take care of themselves.
Doctor Bartolone can assess your situation and help you decide if joint replacement is right for you.