Orthopedic Conditions As We Age
Popular lore states that as we age, our risk for orthopedic conditions increases. Some common orthopedic conditions include osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, along with fractures and dislocations caused by weakened bones.
Preventing Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a genetic, degenerative and lifestyle condition linked to inflammation and oxidative stress over time. This is a condition that impacts the joints and its surrounding structures throughout the body. Arthritic joints often feel stiff or unstable, and can be associated with pain and swelling. These symptoms can interfere with regular movement, impacting daily activities.OA is not caused by trauma to the joints, but rather through lifelong habits or conditions, like chronic inflammation, poor diet, oxidative stress, obesity, lack of exercise, etc.
Post-traumatic arthritis is a different entity and generally a fracture through the joint surface (cartilage) is required for this.
We can help to prevent osteoarthritis through regular exercise and positive diet changes. Diets like the Mediterranean diet are high in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, beta carotene, magnesium, fiber and omega-9 fatty acids that fight to lower inflammation.
Our Tart Cherry Extract is also a natural anti-inflammatory that can provide relief for the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Micronutrients are the key to cartilage and connective tissue health. Most of what is considered the fault of ‘age’ is simply the cumulative effect of a bad diet and exposure to pollution and other exogenous sources of oxidative stress.
Preventing Osteoporosis
As we age, our bones’ regenerative process slows. In the case of osteoporosis, bones lose density at a much faster rate than it can be replaced. This can lead to fractures, back pain, and loss of height.
We can mitigate the risk of decreasing bone density through exercise (such as strength training and yoga) and a healthy diet. Smoking is also linked to a decrease in bone density. So not smoking can decrease your chances of developing osteoporosis.
Diets that include plenty of calcium, protein, Vitamin K and Vitamin D are essential to bone health. The Essential Multivitamin with PEA includes calcium and Vitamin D3 to help support the natural aging process of our bones, along with preventing chronic inflammation and providing joint support.
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Dr. Meredith Warner is certified in the state of Louisiana to recommend medical marijuana to qualifying patients for a variety of conditions including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, intractable pain, multiple sclerosis, and more.
