Joint Preservation A large percentage of the aches and pains physiotherapists treat can be attributed to aging joints. Over time, as we get older, our joints wear down and lose their shock-absorbing capabilities. Thankfully, things can be done to slow down the joint-aging process. Maintaining joint health is more essential now than ever since people are living longer. Here are a few tips to help preserve your joints: Strengthening. Muscles stabilize joints and work as shock absorbers to prevent unnecessary joint stress. Manage your weight. Maintaining a healthy weight decreases the pressure on joints. Exercise wisely. If your joints have already begun to ache, avoid high-impact activities, especially jumping. Low-impact activities such as biking, tai-chi, and swimming are a few alternatives. Seek treatment. If joint pain has begun, early intervention lessens the risk of it becoming chronic. See your physiotherapist for advice on tailoring an activity program suited for you.

Doug Treloar, Physiotherapist, PhysioFirstClinic.ca