To conclude our three-part analysis on the benefits of preventive chiropractic adjustments, I bring another important point of attention regarding joint restrictions: is there a way to prevent or treat them? Did you miss our other two posts? No problem, click here to read the first article, and here for the second one.
There are several strategies individuals can employ to prevent or treat joint restrictions and promote optimal joint health:
1. Regular Exercise: Engaging in a balanced exercise routine that includes strength training, mobility exercises, and cardiovascular activities can help maintain more optimal function of joints and surrounding tissues. Exercise helps improve lubrication, strengthens supporting muscles, and reduces muscle stiffness.
2. Stretching and Mobility Exercises: Incorporating specific exercises that target specific joints or muscle groups that are prone to tightness or restriction is essential for most people. Each person needs to understand their own body and their needs and be doing simple routines to work on those in addition to general exercise. This is the best way to tackle your personal mobility problems and lower inflammation.
3. Proper Posture: Maintaining good posture throughout the day can help prevent aggravating joint restrictions but likely is not going to improve them dramatically. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing in one position. Move through the day. Use mobility exercises to improve your ability to move into and out of different postures. When necessary use ergonomic supports such as lumbar pillows to support the natural cures of the spine when seated.
4. Manual Therapy: Seeking treatment from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, physical therapist, or osteopath, can provide effective manual therapy techniques to address joint restrictions. These may include joint mobilization, manipulation, soft tissue techniques, and corrective exercises tailored to your specific needs. Many people live life without knowing they are in a state of constant stress due to poorly moving joints and stiff tissues. This can lower immunity and increase the chances of injury and pain. This is one reason many people feel so much better after initial sessions of chiropractic care. Their body does not have to deal with so much inflammation which has far-reaching effects on our overall health, energy, immunity, and ability to move freely.
5. Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals can support joint health and reduce inflammation. Consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial for joint health and buffering inflammation, overall. Avoid consuming too many fried or processed foods, consume plenty of plant fiber, and ensure sufficient protein intake for your activity levels (many people miss this one).
6. Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to muscle tension and joint stiffness via the production of stress hormones and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Incorporating stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness practices can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, which may alleviate muscle and joint tension. Being in nature and contact with the ground can help dramatically as well.
7. Avoiding Overuse and Repetitive Movements: While not always easy we have to be mindful of activities or movements that may strain or overuse certain joints, leading to wear and tear over time. While exercising it is important to be aware of your mobility capabilities because while it may seem like you are doing an exercise properly, if nearby joints don’t move well into the range of motion you are attempting, adding weight leads to excessive stress on those tissues.
By incorporating these preventive measures and self-care practices into your daily routine, you can help maintain optimal joint health and reduce the risk of joint restrictions or stiffness. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations and treatment options tailored to your specific needs and health status.
To schedule your evaluation at Coastal Wellness, click here, or talk to our team on WhatsApp. We’re looking forward to seeing you.
