MUSCULOSKELETAL

Risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders

Age: As you get older your body cannot heal as fast and your joints and muscles begin to atrophy. It is important to remain as active as possible to prevent further deterioration.

Occupation: Repetitive tasks, temperature, stress, the position of your body and strain can cause musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. Make sure that if your job does cause strain to your body to take time to build muscle resilience and stretch. If you sit all day at work make sure to take a minute every hour to stand and stretch. If you have repetitive movements try to alter the way you move every now and again.

Activity level: Too much or too little movement can impact your muscles and joints. Sitting all day, poor posture, lifting heavy objects improperly, certain sports, and repetitive movements are all risk factors. Make sure if you play sports or lift heavy objects to listen to your body, take breaks and make sure to lift properly. If you are sedentary all day set reminders to get up and stretch or go for a walk.

Lifestyle: The most modifiable risk factors are lifestyle choices. Make sure to eat a nutritious diet, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Make sure to be active at least 30 mins a day.

Family history: Genetics can play a role in your risk of developing a musculoskeletal disorder.

Talk to your doctor for more information about maintaining your health and reducing your risk of injury.

HAVING DIFFICULTY WITH DAILY ACTIVITIES? Take this ADLs assessment

"Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, which can lead to increased risk of fracture. Known as the “silent thief”, bone deterioration can occur over a number of years without presenting any symptoms. Unfortunately, if detected at the time of a break, the disease is already fairly advanced. The most common fractures associated with osteoporosis are in the hip, spine, wrist, and shoulder. Today, no single cause for osteoporosis has been identified." - Osteoporosis Canada

Exercises combined with the right nutrition is key to preventing osteoporosis. Below are some resources you can browse for more information on preventing fractures and maintaining your health with osteoporosis.

Nutrition:

Nutrition with osteoporosis

Your guide to strong bones

Exercises:

Too Fit To Fracture

Knee exercises

After an injury, it is important to regain your strength and range of motion in the area. Below are conditioning programs from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons designed to aid you in getting back to normal.