Archive for August, 2010
Osteoporosis is a common disorder of the elderly. It manifests symptoms such as pain, stiffness and bony enlargement and swelling of the joints. The pain in osteoporosis is described as a deep ache within or around the joint area and is usually accompanied by limitation of motion. The pain is the result of bony overgrowths rubbing together. It is especially bad when performing activities such as bending, kneeling or stain climbing.
Treatment programs are meant to alleviate pain on a case to case basis. These are meant to reduce the symptoms, increase joint movement and lessen the damaging effects. Treatments include weight control and exercise, the use of devices such as the knee brace, heat and cold therapy and of course, medication. There are also supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin that have been reported to “cure” arthritis.
There’s a new trend in working out these days. A few years ago, non athletic people like me who enrolled in gyms could get a trainer. Today, people who are not into sports could get a coach. It used to be the coaches were reserved for sport teams. Today there are coaches who concentrate on fitness workouts, corporate fitness and beginning runners.
Back in the 90s, fitness workouts usually involved workout videos. The videos were mostly bought by women. There were very few videos to choose from back then. Today there are hundreds of workout videos or DVDs. There are even video games that encourage fitness. These video games simulate the actual movement.
I’ve been an athlete since grade school. Even now well into my thirties I’m very active. I run marathons, do Ironman events and practice martial arts. I can still whip people half my age. Heck, I can still keep pace with college varsity players. The only downside to being active for a very long time is I have creaking in my knees. It’s probably the cartilage. To help me stay active I take Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements.
It sucks to be old! What’s worse than being old is being old and inactive. That’s why I work out daily. Glucosamine and Chondroitin allow me to stay active. It has been shown to build and restore cartilages in the joints. Even if you’re not an athlete it can help. It can restore your mobility.