Discover How to Protect Your Bones, Muscles, and Ligaments

Taking good care of your orthopedic health can help you avoid injuries, protect different areas of the body, and prevent pain from developing in the back, arms, knees, and more. If you’re not prioritizing orthopedic health, the chances of sustaining injuries and needing surgery or physical therapy are much higher. Ready to make sure that doesn’t happen? If so, check out these surefire ways to improve your health and wellness with minimal effort.

#1. Get in the Habit of Exercising

You’ve probably heard it before, but exercise is the key to feeling physically and mentally sound. Even if you have a job where you’re required to sit at a desk for hours on end, it’s crucial to implement some physical activity into your daily routine. It’s as simple as going for a jog in the morning, taking a brisk walk after dinner, or even doing some pilates on your lunch break. Adding 15-30 minutes of exercise into your schedule each day will help you strengthen all areas of the body, including your muscles, joints, and bones.

#2. Stretch Your Body Regularly

Before participating in physical activities, be sure to stretch. You can do simple stretches, such as side lunges, hip circles, leg raises, and other movements that will prepare your body for any exercise. If you stretch before doing something physical, such as running, lifting weights, using an elliptical, or participating in a sport, you can lower your injury risk.

#3. Eat Plenty of Vitamin-D Rich Foods

Vitamin D is one of the most important vitamins to have in your system when working to strengthen your muscles and improve bone health. If you’re not getting enough of it, it’s time to add certain foods to your diet, such as salmon, tuna, orange juice, tofu, and even eggs! While you can purchase vitamins at the store, purchasing them from a reputable company is crucial to ensure you’re taking something that offers the health benefits you want and need.

#4. Reduce Your Salt Intake

Try to reduce your salt intake to protect your bones. When consuming too much of it, the salt can begin to wreak havoc on your bones, leading to osteoporosis. Even if you’re not putting salt directly on your foods, you’ll need to check the sodium levels in some of your favorite foods. You may be surprised to see how much sodium gets added to canned foods, frozen foods, and other convenience meals. Cut back on the sodium and consider buying salt-free spices to add flavor to your food.

#5. Improve Your Posture

If you’re always slouching, you’re increasing your chances of putting a strain on your back and experiencing lower back pain later in life. Nip it in the bud sooner rather than later by fixing your posture. Try your best to sit and stand straight instead of slouching, even when you’re at work or sitting on the couch at home. A simple change in posture can relieve pain and leave you feeling much better.