Joint Health
Our joints support us in everything we do. From walking, to running, to lifting the phone to our ear, joints allow our bones to move freely and independently of each other with the help of cartilage. When joints become stiff, swollen or immobile, physical activity becomes painful and movement can be limited. Keeping the body well through diet, exercise, and preventive maintenance is key to ensuring joints stay flexible and healthy.
How Joints Work
Joints essentially join bones together, allowing them movement. They can be hard like the skull, or movable like knees and hips. Cartilage at the ends of the bones prevents them from rubbing against each other and helps them glide more easily when moving.
Joint Conditions
Arthritis
According to the Centers for Disease Control most recent data on arthritis, over 22,7% of adults suffer from some form of arthritis in the U.S. alone.
The term, “arthritis” is often used to refer to any joint condition, though there are many different types affecting all ages.
Osteoarthritis-When the cartilage wears down in the joints, bones begin to rub together, causing swelling, pain and limited mobility. This is most common in older adults. An injury can lead to arthritis in a joint as well.
Rheumatoid arthritis-This occurs when the body’s own immune system attacks joint tissue. Pain, stiffness, and swelling result and permanent damage to joints can be done.
Juvenile arthritis-Children can develop other forms of arthritis, but “idiopathic” arthritis affects them the most.
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