Stay Agile and Pain-Free: Tips for Improving Flexibility and Joint Health
Flexibility and joint health are essential for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Whether you are an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone looking to improve their overall well-being, having good flexibility and healthy joints can make a significant difference in your daily life. In this article, we will explore the importance of flexibility and joint health, the benefits of having a flexible body and healthy joints, and some practical tips for improving your flexibility and joint health. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, read on to learn how you can improve your flexibility and joint health for a happier and healthier life.
Causes of Joint pain and stiffness
Age: after years of use, the wear and tear effect on joints starts to show, this is mainly because the amount of lubricating fluid inside your joints decreases, and the cartilage may begin to rub together and become thinner. Ligaments also tend to shorten and lose some flexibility, making joints feel stiff. This is more commonly seen in finger joints, hip joints and knees.
Hormonal imbalances: for example, estrogen is known to have an anti-inflammatory action, and after menopause estrogen levels drop, causing joint pain to emerge.
Depression, anxiety, and stress: when the body is in the fight or flight state, it releases certain chemicals that trigger inflammation and pain and cause muscles to tighten leading to stiffness.
Obesity and overweight: will cause an overload on the joints, causing an increase in joint friction.
Maintaining and improving joints health:
Be physically active. The more you move, the more flexible your joints will be, meaning the lower risk of trauma you have.
Warm up, Stretch, Exercises, Stretch. Stretching without warming up increases the chance of injury. Do a light warm-up first, like walking or jogging for 10 minutes, to loosen up the joints, ligaments, and tendons around them.
Not all exercises are the same. Avoid activities that put too much pressure on your joints. Therefore, walking, bicycling, and swimming may be safer options.
Strengthen the muscles around your joints. Get stronger to give your joints and bones better support. Focus on your core, as strong abs and back muscles help your balance.
Physiotherapy can promote joint health by providing targeted exercises and stretches to improve flexibility and range of motion. These exercises can help prevent joint stiffness and improve joint mobility, which can reduce the risk of injury and improve overall joint function. Checkout Valeo’s at-home physiotherapy sessions!
It’s not only about sports
There are several supplements and nutrients that can help maintain, support, and improve your joint health.
1. Vitamin D and Calcium, research has shown that vitamin D and calcium may help reduce the risk of joint pain and stiffness, particularly in people with osteoarthritis.
2. Collagen supplements help improve joint flexibility, reduce inflammation, and promote the growth and repair of cartilage.
3. Omega 3 fatty acids, Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation in the body, which can be particularly beneficial for people with joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
4. Chondroitin and glucosamine: two natural substances within your cartilage, which tends to decrease around your joints as you age. Supplements containing these components have been found to reduce pain caused by cartilage loss, with chondroitin improving function and glucosamine improving stiffness
5. Cherry juice extract: Anthocyanin supplies both the red coloring and anti-inflammatory benefits in cherries and other red fruits and vegetables. not recommended for diabetic patients.
How can Valeo Help
If you are suffering from any kind of joint pain or stiffness, valeo can help. We will provide you with a health coach consultation, where they will give you the guidance you need through these issues. They might recommend some blood tests that will uncover any underlying cause and supplements if needed. It's important to note that while supplements may have a positive effect on joint health, not all supplements are created equal. Choose a high-quality supplement that is derived from a reliable source and has been tested for purity and effectiveness. So consult with a Valeo health coach before taking any supplements, as they can help determine the appropriate dosage and ensure that they are safe for you.