How ageing impacts our joints, muscles and posture and how to reduce the impact

It can be disheartening to reach that stage of life, when you have more time for recreation, only to experience age-related pain and stiffness that prevent you from enjoying this newfound leisure time to the full. It affects your emotional, financial, psychological life as well as the physical one.

The effects of ageing on the body can cause symptoms such as:

• poor balance
• general stiffness
• back, neck and arm pain
• hip and knee pain and stiffness
• arthritis and joint swelling

As we get older, our body loses elasticity, increasing the chance of injuring the soft tissues and bony structures. The body also loses some of its ability to recover from strains or injury. Many of us mistakenly believe that the effect of ageing on our body's joints is inevitable and untreatable, and that we have no alternative but to learn to live a lesser life with our pain.

Osteopathic treatment can go a long way towards relieving these distressing conditions. Osteopathic treatment aims to increase joint and muscle mobility, improve balance, prevent further joint wear and tear, to maintain health and help keep you active and independent.

Osteopaths can provide:

• hands-on treatment to keep your body balanced and mobile
• home exercises to keep you stronger and more flexible
• advice on nutrition
• guidance about outdoor exercising
• advice about gentle stretches to help maintain joint and muscle flexibility and assist in preventing injuries
• information about therapies like Tai Chi, yoga or gym-based training which can maximise your balance and strength.

Osteopaths also work with other health practitioners and doctors to ensure a holistic approach to your health care. If surgery is also required, the post-operative recovery period can be prolonged and painful. Osteopathic treatment may be helpful during the recuperation period.

Getting help and keeping mobile is the key to your health, happiness and independence.

If you are suffering from pain or back problems contact Elemental Health on (02) 8084 0081 to book an appointment with our Osteopath, Vanessa Malone.