DR. ARTHRITIS SHARES: THESE ARE THE BEST THINGS YOU CAN DO TO MAINTAIN HEALTHY JOINTS

When you’re younger, it’s easy to take your joints for granted. You’re at the peak of health after all, and the thought of joint and bone deterioration is so far off.

But your lifestyle, even as early as your 20s, will determine the condition of your joints and bones as you approach old age.  Given this, here are some preventative measures you can do today to make sure that your joints are in top shape in the future.

1. Make sure your workstation is comfortable

From your 20s and well into adulthood, you will spend a lot of time at work, so it only makes sense that you make it as comfortable as possible—especially if you spend a lot of time behind a desk.

Choose an ergonomic chair as much as possible and don’t position it too low that you constantly have to bend to get out of it. Ensure that your elbows and forearms are supported, especially if you do a lot of typing.

Try to take frequent breaks and stretch your arms and legs out as well.

2. Maintain a healthy diet

Your body weight will affect your joint health. Wear and tear on your joints is more common if you’re overweight because it puts undue stress on your joints.

A healthy diet will not only ensure that you’re getting the right amount of nutrients for your body, it will also help you maintain your weight.

3. Make exercise a part of your lifestyle

Building muscle helps provide support for your joints.  Gaining muscle mass is beneficial for providing stability for your bones.

Be sure to seek the advice of a professional trainer before you start any new exercise program.

4. Be conscious of your posture

Standing and sitting up straight is crucial to protecting all the joints in your body, but most especially your neck, knees and hips.

5. Listen to your body

Needless to say that you should always listen to what your body says—avoid pushing yourself beyond your limits and take extra steps to ease the pressure your lifestyle places on your joints. For instance, wearing compression sleeves during exercise or any strenuous, repetitive activity can be helpful. Soaking in a nice warm bath can help sooth and relax any aches and pains.