Harmful Habits That Damage the Joints and Bones

Did you know that certain habits can damage your joints and bones? If you’re not careful, you could be doing long-term damage to your health without even realizing it. With this in mind, we are going to discuss some of the most harmful habits when it comes to your bones and joints – let’s all stay healthy this year!

Exercising Too Much

This may sound like an oxymoron, but it is possible to over-exercise. When you put too much stress on your joints and bones, it can lead to long-term damage. Sadly, this is especially true if you are not using the proper form when exercising. To prevent damage, be sure to warm up before working out and to listen to your body if it is telling you to take a break.

Not Exercising Enough

While you can harm by exercising too much, you can also harm by not exercising enough. When you don’t use your joints, they can become weak and brittle. Over time, this increases the chances of developing osteoporosis and other joint problems. To keep your joints healthy, be sure to get regular exercise.

Eating the Wrong Foods

Unsurprisingly, the food you eat can also have an impact on your joints. Eating too much sugar, for example, can increase inflammation in the body, which can in turn lead to joint pain. To keep your joints healthy, eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.

Smoking

Is it really a surprise that smoking is bad for your health? In addition to the well-known risks associated with smoking, such as lung cancer, smoking can also damage the joints. Smoking decreases the blood flow to the joints, which can lead to joint damage and pain because the joints don’t get enough nutrients and oxygen. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your joints (and your overall health).

Too Much Alcohol

Like smoking, drinking too much alcohol can also decrease the blood flow to the joints and lead to joint damage. In addition, alcohol can also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb vitamin C, which is important for healthy bones and joints. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

Sedentary Lifestyle

Even if you don’t go to the gym every day or play a sport, it’s important to keep your body active and moving. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weak muscles, which can cause joint pain and damage. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day, and if you can’t do that, even just a brisk walk will help. Remember, you don’t need to train for a marathon – just put on some comfortable shoes and walk.

Bad Phone Habits

We know you love to check up on Instagram and message friends, but all that time spent looking down at your phone is wreaking havoc on your spine. The human head weighs about 12 pounds, but when you tilt it forward at a 60-degree angle, it feels like it weighs 60 pounds. So try to limit the amount of time you spend looking down at your devices. If possible, lift your phone up to eye level when you’re using it, and take breaks often to give your neck a rest.

Not Following Safety Rules at Work

Finally, if you have a job that requires you to lift heavy objects or work in awkward positions, it’s important to follow safety rules to protect your joints and bones. Lifting objects that are too heavy or using improper lifting techniques can put a lot of strain on your back and joints, and over time, this will cause damage.

If you suspect any problems, contact a service like Victorian Bone and Joint Specialists for the betterment of your health!