Keep your Joints Moving

If you have reached middle age, you may be experiencing some pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis. This is a common joint disorder in which cartilage — the cushioning between the bone joints — wears away.

“Osteoarthritis is a process that occurs over a long period of time,” said Scott Blair, physical therapist and assistant director of SportsMed in Steamboat Springs. “When you are younger, you can absorb injury better. As you age, repetitive injury or general wear and tear adds up to pain and stiffness, especially in knees and hips.”

Inactivity is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis. Muscles atrophy quickly from disuse and become unable to provide structure and support that joints need. To be nourished and healthy, the cartilage in the knee requires the movement of muscle over bone to get a sufficient blood supply.

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