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Maintaining Orthopedic Health in Your Golden Years

Aging Gracefully Maintaining Orthopedic Health in Your Golden Years Blog Post
Maintaining Orthopedic Health in Your Golden Years
Dr Shawn P Harrington
Dr. Shawn P. Harrington

Aging is a natural part of life, and while it comes with many joys and experiences, it can also bring changes to our orthopedic health. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to age gracefully while prioritizing orthopedic health, all backed by science and a strong community-oriented perspective.

Understanding Orthopedic Health in Aging:

As we age, our bones, joints, and muscles undergo changes that can impact our mobility and comfort. It’s important to understand these changes to proactively address them.

Bone Density: As we grow older, our bones tend to lose density, making them more susceptible to fractures. A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help maintain bone health.

Joint Health: The cartilage in our joints naturally wears down over time, which can lead to conditions like osteoarthritis. Engaging in regular, low-impact exercise can help keep joints flexible and strong.

Muscle Mass: Aging often leads to muscle loss. Resistance training and maintaining an active lifestyle can preserve muscle mass and functionality.

Orthopedic Health Tips for Your Golden Years:

Prevent Back Pain with Good Posture When seated, keep these tips in mind Adjust the height of your chair so that your feet rest flat on the floor or on a footrest. Keep your knees at or below the level of your hips. Don't cross your legs. Your ankles should be in front of your knees. Keep a small gap between the back of your knees and the front of your seat. Adjust your chair to support your back or place a rolled towel or small pillow behind your lower back. Make sure the top of your monitor is at or slightly below eye level. Keep your head and neck balanced and in line with your torso. Relax your shoulders. Keep your forearms parallel to the ground. Try not to sit in the same position for long periods. Source: Mayo ClinicStay Active: Regular physical activity, like walking or swimming, can help maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength. It also keeps your cardiovascular system healthy, benefiting overall orthopedic health.

Maintain a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients can support bone health. Consult with a nutritionist or your healthcare provider for a personalized plan.

Manage Your Weight: Excess weight can strain your joints and lead to orthopedic issues. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to prevent joint pain.

Regular Check-ups: Visit your orthopedic specialist for regular check-ups. Early detection of orthopedic issues can lead to better outcomes.

Community Support: Connect with local senior centers and groups that focus on staying active. The sense of community can be both motivating and uplifting.

Mind Your Posture: Proper posture can significantly reduce the strain on your back and neck. Ergonomic furniture and regular posture checks can help maintain spinal health.

Orthopedic Insights from Our Community:

At Monadnock Community Hospital, our orthopedic team is dedicated to supporting individuals in their golden years. We have seen countless success stories where our patients have embraced these orthopedic health tips and continued to lead active, healthy and fulfilling lives.

Aging gracefully with a focus on orthopedic health is not just about the science-backed tips but also about the support and understanding of a community. Remember, you’re never alone in this journey. Together, we can embrace the golden years with grace, strength, and a deep sense of well-being.

Dr. Shawn P. Harrington

Aging Gracefully: Maintaining Orthopedic Health in Your Golden Years Changes in Your Body: Bone Density Joint Health Muscle Mass Tips: Stay Active Maintain a Healthy Diet Manage Your Weight Regular Check-Ups Community Support Mind Your Posture

Why Choose Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates?

Our board-certified senior orthopedics specialists combine decades of experience with training from prestigious institutions like the Mayo Clinic. We offer comprehensive orthopedic care using advanced techniques and technology, all while providing personalized attention. At Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates, we’re committed to getting you back to pain-free living as quickly as possible with expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Choose us for expert care that’s close to home, where your well-being is our highest priority.

Monadnock Orthopedic Associates
Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates

Monadnock Community Hospital
Bond Wellness Center Suite 200
458 Old Street Road
Peterborough, NH 03458
Phone: 603-924-2144
Fax: 603-924-3993