Bone and Joint Health Action Week is held annually October 12 to 20 to raise awareness worldwide about prevention, disease management and treatment.

Data shows that one in two Americans over the age of 18 suffer from a musculoskeletal disorder including back pain, arthritis, fracture, osteoporosis, deformity, childhood conditions and sports trauma. One in three people over the age of 18 required medical care for a musculoskeletal condition, and increases each year. This is due to increasing life expectancy and changes in risk factors unless new treatments and preventive actions are found.

Worldwide, bone and joint conditions are the most common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability affecting millions of people.

How can you prevent problems?

Prevent injuries

To prevent injuries, you must keep your muscles healthy, strong, and flexible. This helps strengthen your bones and protect your joints. By increasing muscle strength, you improve balance and posture and help you avoid falls.

Prevent osteoporosis

Bones need vitamin D, calcium, and regular exercise to stay strong. Avoid smoking and alcohol since these can make your bones thinner. Eat foods rich in calcium such as yogurt, cheese, milk, and dark green vegetables as well as foods rich in vitamin D such as eggs and fatty fish.

Prevent arthritis

Protect your joints from injuries from sports or overuse to avoid damaging the cartilage. Stay at a healthy weight to avoid extra strain on the joints. Exercises that do not put too much stress on the joints are recommended such as swimming, biking, and water exercises.

If you are experiencing joint pain, don’t delay your care. At Family Foot & Leg Center, we can recommend the right medication and management to keep the bones and joints healthy as well as the most advanced treatment options on an outpatient basis. This means no prolonged hospital stay and more time at home for recovery.

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