Supporting Your Orthopedic Health as You Age

Building Healthy Bones & Joints

As you continue to get older, arthritic conditions and osteoporosis are common ailments that can affect your joint health. However, there are plenty of ways to ward off these unwanted joint aches and pains along the way.

Stay Active

As an older adult, one of the best ways you can support your musculoskeletal health is by leading an active lifestyle. Not only does it keep chronic conditions at bay, it also helps you to continue your day-to-day activities without needing help from others.

There are 3 types of exercise you should include in your fitness routine to support your bone and joint health:

• High-impact weight-bearing exercise: Build up bone density and keep them strong.
• Low-impact weight-bearing exercises: Build up bone density without placing stress on your joints.
• Muscle-strengthening exercises: Strengthen supportive muscle, reducing stress on your joints.

Pay Attention to Your Posture

While everyone is guilty of slouching every now and then, having poor posture can wreak havoc on your spine and joint health. Keeping your spine in optimal alignment helps to evenly distribute your weight, avoiding additional pressure on weight-bearing joints like your hips and knees.

Some tips to help improve your posture include:

• Keep your head, shoulders, and hips stacked.
• Make sure your hips are in a neutral position.
• Get up from your desk and stretch at least once an hour.
• Keep your shoulders down and back.
• Avoid crossing your legs.
• Adjust your seating position often.

Eat a Diet Rich in Vitamin D and Calcium

Like most areas of your health, the foods you eat can help to support your orthopedic health too!

Calcium

While you may have heard that drinking milk and getting enough calcium helps to promote strong bones, it also helps to support healthy muscle contraction. Some foods that are great sources of calcium include:

• Dairy products
• Dark leafy greens
• Soybeans
• Nuts

Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps your body to absorb calcium more efficiently and also supports healthy muscle function. Some foods that can add extra vitamin D in your diet include:

• Fatty fish
• Egg yolks
• Mushrooms
• Fortified foods like orange juice or milk

If you have additional concerns about how you can support your orthopedic health, be sure to reach out to your primary care physician.

Senior Health Services in Titusville

At Parrish Healthcare, we offer a variety of services, programs, and amenities specific to the needs of our elderly patients. When you choose our geriatric care team, you can be confident that you and your loved ones will receive the compassionate, high-quality care that you deserve.

Whether you’re in need of a regular check-up or you have a health concern, we’re here to help. Call 321-383-9393 today to learn more about our Geriatric Care services or schedule your next visit.