Change Your LifeStyle
Stay in Motion
The more you move, the less stiffness you will have. Keep changing your position while you are reading or watching television. If you are working at the desk, take short breaks.
Stretch
Flexibility helps you move better. Try to stretch daily or at least three times a week. But don't do it when your muscles are cold. Do a light warm-up first, like walking for 10 minutes, to loosen up the joints, ligaments, and tendons around them.
Go Low-Impact
Which exercise is good? The best choices are activities that don't pound your joints, like walking, bicycling, swimming, and strength training.
Strengthen Your Muscle
Get stronger to give your joints better support. Even a little more strength makes a difference. A physical therapist or certified trainer can show you what moves to do and how to do them. If you have joint problems, avoid quick, repetitive movements.
Work on Your Range
If your joints are too stiff, you will want to get back as much range of motion as you can. The range is the normal amount a joint can move in certain directions. Consult your doctor or physical therapist to recommend exercises to get yours where it should be.
Power Up Your Core
Stronger abs and back muscles help your balance. You are less likely to fall or get injured. Add core (abdominal, back, and hip) strengthening exercises to your routine. Pilates and yoga are great workouts to try.
Safety First
Use protection gear when you do sports like skating or play contact sports. If your joints already ache, wear braces to protect the affected joints during exercising.
For other tips on keeping your joints healthy, read our other blogs.