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Regular Exercise Can Limit Risks and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Regular Exercise Can Limit Risks and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Surgeons are pushing the use of a balanced fitness program to prevent and minimize the symptoms of Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that affects approximately 20 million Americans.
Dallas,
TX,
United States of America
(sardnews.org)
20/06/2013
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage covering the ends of bones wears down, leaving only a jagged, worn surface - causing pain whenever that particular joint moves. This disease affects nearly 20 million Americans, and is especially prevalent among the middle-aged (ages 45-65). Besides the wear and tear that comes with age, alternative risk factors can include obesity, previous injury in the same joint area, or a family history of osteoarthritis.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AAOSM) are now pushing exercise as a method of preventing or reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis, an idea that is championed by Dr, Mollabashy and Gilbert of Greater Dallas Orthopaedics. They recommend a regular, moderate-intensity workout with no to low impact, taking place in 30-45 minute intervals, three to five days out of the week.
Drs. Mollabashy and Gilbert speak to the benefits of this balanced fitness plan as a way to help reduce the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis, improve range of motion and flexibility, and enhance muscle strength and endurance. Furthermore, balance and coordination will be improved and a healthy weight can be maintained.
The AAOS outlines four components for each workout, starting with a warm-up to increase body temperature and gradually raise one's heart rate. The second component involves flexibility, which they say is essential to joint health but should not be pushed too hard as everyone's degree of flexibility varies. The third component is aerobic, or cardio, activity; stationary bicycling is considered the best option for patients who already suffer from osteoarthritis. Lastly, the AAOS recommends and anaerobic, or strength, activity with light-to-moderate resistance.
If exercise does proves ineffective, or begins causing any kind of pain, dizziness, light headedness, or shortness of breath, a physician should be consulted. Physical therapy, medications, and even surgery may be necessary to further reduce osteoarthritis symptoms. Drs. Al Mollabashy and Nathan F. Gilbert of Greater Dallas Orthopaedics are certified orthopedic surgeons who may be able to help, and all interested patients are encouraged to contact them today to learn more.
Dr. Mollabashy and Dr. Gilbert practice at Greater Dallas Orthopaedics in Dallas, Texas. Interested parties are encouraged to find out more at www.gdortho.com
About Greater Dallas Orthopaedics
Greater Dallas Orthopaedics is made up of board certified surgeons, Dr. Al Mollabashy and Dr. Nathan Gilbert. Specializing in musculoskeletal oncology, reconstructive orthopaedic surgery, and general orthopaedics, GD Ortho treats adult and pediatric patients with efficiency and care.
Dr. Gilbert attended The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas and completed his internship in general surgery and residency in orthopaedic surgery at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School & Parkland Memorial Hospital. Dr. Mollabashy, who attended Indiana University School of Medicine, went on to complete a General Surgical Internship at the Methodist Hospital of Indiana. Both surgeons are also assistant clinical professors at UT Southwestern Medical School and are actively involved in physician education.
Greater Dallas Orthopaedics can be reached at 214.252.7020 or http://www.gdortho.com/
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About Greater Dallas Orthopaedics, PLLC
Both surgeons are also assistant clinical professors at UT Southwestern Medical School and are actively involved in physician education. Greater Dallas Orthopaedics can be reached at 214.252.7020 or http://www.gdortho.com/
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