Looking after your musculoskeletal health

Musculoskeletal health is not something you may think about on a day-to-day basis. However, musculoskeletal conditions affect over 10 million people and are the leading cause of disability in England. Good musculoskeletal health is what allows us to function effectively to complete activities and hobbies pain free as we go about our day.

Your musculoskeletal health refers to structures in the body relating to muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and bones. The health of these structures is affected by a wide variety of factors, some factors are genetic and cannot be changed for example age sex and height. However external factors can be controlled to ensure maximum musculoskeletal health.

Common musculoskeletal disorders include:

·      Tendinitis

·      Ligament sprain

·      Osteoarthritis

·      Carpal tunnel syndrome

·      Rheumatoid Arthritis

·      Tendon rupture

·      Bone Fracture

How to Achieve Musculoskeletal Health

• Engage in regular physical activity for general fitness. Cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility exercises should all be included weekly.

• Follow a balanced diet that includes the required amounts of calcium and vitamin D for your age and sex.

• Avoid smoking or aim to quit if you are a smoker.

• Consume only moderate amounts of alcohol and soft drinks.

The main factor is living an active lifestyle, it is extremely important to health, especially in avoiding long term joint and muscular problems. Around 19% of men and 26% of women across different age groups in England are damaging their health through a lack of physical activity. Evidence suggests that you have less chance of developing osteoarthritis in the hips and knees if you jog regularly than someone who does not, despite popular believes that exercise can be harmful to joints. Regular exercise is not only beneficial for your joints, but it also severely cuts the risk of many other major diseases.

There is also a lot that can be done in the workplace to reduce any threats to musculoskeletal health, including adapting physical environments and work practices, as well as early interventions to identify and address problems.

If you feel you are suffering from any of the musculoskeletal conditions mentioned in this blog- then give us a call on 01202 604707 or email admin@wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk.

-       Toby