FACT: many millennials are being diagnosed with arthritis for a surprising reason – overdoing it on high-impact workouts (CrossFit and brutal boot camps, we’re looking at you) that tax your joints, says orthopaedic surgeon Dr David Neuman.
Ignoring the pain could lead to loss of mobility and surgery (no thanks!).
Knees or hips unusually creaky? Try:
Icing them:
Apply ice (covered in a T-shirt) to the joint for 20 mins at a time, up to five times a day, for three days. The cold reduces inflammation.
Performing range-of-motion exercises:
Do this pre- and post-workout. March in place or swing your legs from front to back to increase blood flow and joint mobility. Gently rotate neck and shoulders.
Stopping workouts:
If your pain is sharp (as opposed to dull and achy), stop what you’re doing. If the discomfort persists after two weeks off, see a physio.
Reform your own practice:
Easing pain with pilates? Good one, mate – in a study of peeps with chronic lower back problems, 12 weeks of pilates improved function, confidence to move and ab-muscle activation. But even better than taking to a mat? Using a reformer, which made a difference more quickly.
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