Hoodwink Father Time

Knee pain is common in advancing age. It is often caused by osteoarthritis. This is the reason why clinicians refer to knee problems in the elderly as age-related knee problems. Fool and deceive your age-related knee problems by doing these anti-aging defenses.

But why do you have knee pains? Your knees absorb huge amounts of weight and pressure. It carries one-and-a-half times your body weight. The typical pressure, plus the regular wear and tear, takes toll as you age. The muscles and ligaments become weaker with advancing age. The cartilage (called menisci) deteriorates with years of usage. If you’re overweight, has some histories of knee injuries, an athlete, or somebody who has family history of osteoarthritis, you are prone to knee deterioration.

Anti-aging defenses

Lose weight. Each additional pound carry translates to 4 pounds of pressure on your knees. Therefore, an additional 10 pounds would add 40 pounds of pressure on your knee joints. Losing weight relieves pressure on your knees. Compute for your body mass index (BMI) and always aim and maintain for a healthy range.

Increase range of motion. Do some stretching exercises on a daily basis. People with better motion have fewer problems with their joints, including their knee joints. It is important in getting the knee straight. Work with somebody, like a gym instructor or a physical therapist, to help you improve range of motion.

Strengthen the muscles. Boosting muscle strength stabilizes the knee joint. Strength exercises help muscle absorb stress you place on the knee. Make your hip and abdominal muscles strong. This will maximize knee function. Enroll in a gym or consult a physical therapist for a strengthening program that is best for you.

What activities can make osteoarthritis worse?

Osteoarthritis symptoms can become worse if you remain standing for long periods of time on a hard surface. Squatting for many minutes can also worsen osteoarthritis pain. These activities irritate the soft cartilage meniscus of the knee. Avoid long periods of time with your knees bent deeply. High impact activities, such as jumping can make your knee pain worse. Long hours and endurance running and jogging and aerobics can irritate the muscles of the knee and may worsen age-related knee pains. Go for non-impact exercises, such as cycling and stationary bicycle.

Focus on your goals for a better knee health. Use the stairs, go for a walk, or crawl on the floor to play with your grandchildren.