Don’t Let Age Stop You in Your Tracks

Sure, age is just a number, and we all want to be forever young; but, be sure you take notice of your body and the changes it goes through with every passing year. In a previous posting, we mentioned how age has degenerative effects on the discs in your back. Therefore, we’d like to focus on how aging can have a painful effect on the body, and best practices to stay agile and prevent future pain.

Osteoarthritis is a major concern for many people as they age. It can take effect when the protective cartilage and the joints in your spinal column (or other joints) begin to wear down with age, causing one bone to grind against another. Facet joints are often affected by osteoarthritis. Those joints are the hook-shaped structures that run up and down the back of the spine. As osteoarthritis sets in, the bone often bulges out, putting pressure on surrounding nerves and causing pain.

Bending backwards and early mornings may be especially painful as osteoarthritis sets in.  You may experience serious stiffness accompanied with lower back pain that could protrude into your bottom and upper thighs, as well as up into your shoulders and neck. To prevent this pain, it’s crucial to do regular exercises that strengthen your back and core muscles. You need to stay active and flexible with your entire body to give your spine as much support as possible.

Start now! If you need to shed a few pounds, try to take it off as soon as possible. No body needs the added strain on their discs and joints. A great way to get in shape is to sign up for local events like our upcoming 5K. These events will give you a goal to work toward that you can be accountable for.

If you are already experiencing what you believe to be signs of early osteoarthritis, contact your local chiropractor for more information to learn about ways to get the pain relief that you need. Dr. Harper would be more than happy to talk with you about specific core building and back strengthening exercises you can do to give your spine the support it needs and prevent future pain. We would love to see you age pain free, and encourage all of our patients to stay active throughout their many years of life!

Looking for a way to stay agile? Set small, achievable goals everyday! Build up your strength and endurance. Soon, you’ll be ready to sign up for local events to participate in and inspire others to be healthy and fit just like you!

*Some information in this blog was derived from an article at www.health.com