The Pain of Joint Pain

One of the things that is a real drag about getting older is that our joints start to show signs of wear. About ten years ago I hyper-extended my hip joints while doing the splits for a Tae Kwon Do exhibition. I have paid the price ever since.

I now take Glucosamine with Chondrotin and MSM daily and have to be careful doing things like the leg press machine, heavy squats or the adductor machine. Anything that puts pressure on the hip joints causes me pain (sometimes a lot) a day or two later. In fact, even running on the treadmill has been known to keep me awake at night from the resulting pain.

Joint pain can be caused by many types of injuries or conditions. No matter what causes it, joint pain can be very bothersome. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes stiffness and pain in the joints. Osteoarthritis involves growth of bone spurs and degeneration of cartilage at a joint. It is very common in adults older than 45 and can cause joint pain.

Joint pain may also be caused by bursitis (inflammation of the bursae). The bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion and pad bony prominences, allowing muscles and tendons to move freely over the bone.

Here are some common causes of joint pain:

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
Bursitis
Chondromalacia patellae
Gout (especially found in the big toe)
Infectious diseases, including
Epstein-Barr viral syndrome
Hepatitis
Influenza
Lyme disease
Measles (rubeola)
Mumps
Parvovirus
Rheumatic fever
Rubella (German measles)
Varicella (chickenpox)
Injury, including fracture
Osteoarthritis
Osteomyelitis
Septic arthritis
Tendinitis

Unusual exertion or overuse, including strains or sprains

Kind of overwhelming, isn't it? The good news is that recent research published in the Journal of Rheumatology suggests that certain simple strength training routines can help.

In the study, individuals with arthritis engaged in a four month-long exercise program consisting of simple weight bearing exercises, such as squats and leg extensions, in their own homes. The exercisers experienced a 43 percent reduction in pain and a 44 percent improvement in physical functioning. The exercisers were able to walk, climb stairs, sit, and stand more easily than their non-exercising counterparts.

According to the study, individuals who are self-motivated may be able to manage their arthritis pain with exercise and reduce the need for pain medication. While pills help pain and stiffness, they don’t do a thing for your muscles or joint strength.

The study concludes that exercise is effective because muscles act as shock absorbers for the joints; they are able to cushion the impact of their body weight on various joints during activity. The stronger the muscles, the better they are able to absorb this shock.

 Boy, it's really scary to think how bad my hips would hurt if I didn't weight train!!!