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omputer use is part of most people’s daily lives. Whether you use it for work, leisure or both, you may spend several hours a day on the computer. Unfortunately, after spending a great deal of time in one position, people often report aches, pains and fatigue from various body parts. Below are some suggestions for ergonomic desktop computer set-up to help prevent or lessen physical stress and strain. (more…)
Most people spend a great deal of time using their portable electronic devices, such as mobile phones, tablets and electronic readers. Many patients report that after typing lengthy text messages and e-mails on their devices, they often feel discomfort in their neck, back and hands. Here are some tips on using portable electronic devices ergonomically to help prevent or lessen physical stress and strain. (more…)
Remember those skeletons that hung in many of our elementary school classrooms growing up? The one component of those models is bone: humans are born with up to 270 of them! It is clearly important for us to protect this crucial framework in order to preserve a high quality of life.
One concern as we get older is osteoporosis, a condition of thin and porous bones. Aging, which we cannot prevent (at least not yet!), is the greatest risk factor for osteoporosis. Bones thin over time because the hormones estrogen and testosterone—which are important to maintaining bone density—both decline with age. We all know bone fractures can be debilitating, especially for the elderly, so, as with all medical conditions, prevention is paramount. (more…)
Osetoarthritis (OA) involves degeneration of a joint or joints due to excessive wear and tear. While OA can affect joints throughout the body, it commonly affects those in the hand. People with hand OA often report feeling generalized pain and morning stiffness in the joints. In regard to appearance, people with hand OA often have enlarged knuckles and excessive bone growth on the sides of the fingers.
Although hand arthritis symptoms may be quite severe, there are many simple remedies that can help one decrease pain and stiffness. (more…)
This guest post was written by Simone Walters, MS, RD.
Osteoporosis and low bone density (osteopenia) — conditions characterized by loss of bone mass — are major health concerns in the United States. Throughout our lifespan, bone is constantly broken down and rebuilt, usually in a balanced way that results in bone growth and mineral accumulation in bones (“bone mineral density”) that supports a strong skeleton. As we age, this accumulation reaches its highest point (“peak bone mineral density”) and gradually shifts towards bone loss. Osteopenia occurs when bone mineral density declines below a healthy value; osteoporosis is its more severe manifestation, and both increase the risk of bone fractures. (more…)
Most adults experience joint pain at some point in their lifetime. But there are a number of simple steps you can take to reduce the pain, protect your joints, and avoid making things worse.
Do not work through the pain: If you are performing some kind of activity and begin to feel pain, try the following:
Use your larger joints: Instead of lifting heavy items in the kitchen, for example, slide them across the counter. Or, if you need to lift something, hold the item close to your body and use your palms to lift, instead of the fingers.
Make things easy for yourself: Avoid tasks that cause discomfort or pain. Keep frequently used household items close to you, and avoid reaching far or straining to perform an activity. For transporting groceries, try using a wheeled cart or a backpack instead of carrying groceries by hand.
Take a break: If you have a lot of tasks to perform, spread the tasks throughout the day and alternate light and heavy tasks. Also, allow yourself extra time to complete tasks, so you can avoid rushing. Take a rest break while you still have energy—do not wait until exhaustion sets in. Try taking brief and frequent rest breaks.
Use proper body mechanics: Lift and carry items closer to your torso to decrease strain. Try to avoid unnecessary strain. Get heavy items delivered. And, if needed, ask for help.
If you are experiencing joint pain, call 877-MD-ORTHO or 877-636-7846 to find a doctor who can help.