The Key to a Full Life in Old Age
Every day our legs, knees, and ankles take a beating. Walking, standing and moving throughout the day puts pressure on our joints, but it’s vital that we protect our mobility. Researchers believe that there are two things vital to an elderly person’s quality of life: social relationships and the ability to move painlessly (or at least the ability to move with minimal assistance).
The good news is that it doesn’t take much to protect our mobility—but it does mean making small choices over a long period of time. Here are a few ways we can keep our joints healthy for a long, full life.
Walking for Optimum Health
Walking is one of the best ways to keep joints healthy and maintain optimum health. Walking is especially good for our knees. For people with heart issues, walking is a great way to develop cardiovascular health without putting stress on joints.
Less stress on our joints makes walking a sustainable way to stay active throughout our entire lives. Walking can be done almost anywhere and is a great way to burn off calories.
Easy & Effective Exercises
One exercise that maintains healthy knees is leg lifts. Leg lifts strengthen the muscles around the joint. This reduces the stress on the joint and keeps you pain-free. Another exercise that is gentle on our joints (but develops strength) is wall sits. Wall sits strengthen the legs and core, especially around the knees. Increased knee and core strength means powerful stability and better balance.
Body Rolling & Massages Offer Joint Health
Body rolling and massage are other ways to keep your joints healthy. Body rolling is accomplished with a foam roller and can be quite helpful if you experience pain in one hip or knee when walking. Massage can also promote joint health. Massage is often done manually, but it is also performed with the help of machines. Massage can ease tension in the muscles and ease aching joints.
To conclude, protecting our mobility and joint health is important as we age. Follow the exercise examples and suggestions above, and enjoy good health!