Aging, obesity and chronic health conditions, among other factors, can lead to limited mobility
and strength. These issues can in turn contribute to spine, muscle and joint problems. Beginning at approximately the age of 30, our bones decline in density. If the overall bone density gets dangerously low, this is defined as “Osteoporosis”. Physical exercise, particularly if it’s weight-bearing, can help you better manage osteoporosis, including its associated effects.
For most individuals, spine, muscle and joint problems begin with mild symptoms such as
joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Discomfort can prompt you to limit activity, leading to weaker
muscles. As you progressively begin to lose joint range of motion, pain will begin to intensify. “You begin using muscles and joints wrong, which makes it worse,” says Dr. Stelsoe. At this point, individuals may stop exercising and begin limiting their everyday activities. “An inactive lifestyle can contribute to many chronic conditions, including osteoporosis, among others,” says Dr. Amy Brown, a Chiropractor from Cambridge, Ontario. Inactivity can also lead to balance issues, which places individuals at risk of falling. Also, individuals who suffer from multiple conditions must often juggle a wide range of medications and the associated side effects. All of this can sometimes lead to very serious outcomes, such as falls, which have the potential to shorten your lifespan. However, being physically active can turn things around for those with conditions such as Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis. That’s the power of exercise!
Exercise impacts health, but it must be the right kind of exercise. Controlled movements that
build strength and range of motion are ideal. A combination of activities, such as swimming,
cardio, gym equipment and low-impact aerobics can be effective. However, weight-bearing
exercise works best to help you manage Osteoporosis. For those whose range of motion is
limited, yoga and Pilates can be helpful, along with further support from Chiropractic care,
Massage Therapy and Physiotherapy.
The right activity for the right person can make a big difference. Dr. John Antoniou, an
orthopaedic surgeon and former president of the Canadian Orthopaedic Association, says: “You
won’t reverse the damage that’s occurred, but it’ll maintain the function that’s still there.” Exercise can help you manage Osteoporosis to slow the rate of bone loss that is associated with this age-related bone disease. It can also reverse some age-related muscle mass loss. With less pain, stronger muscles and better balance, you’ll find you can do much more!
Author: Dr. Marco De Ciantis, D.C.