Bone and Joint Week

Bone and Joint Week, is observed each year around mid-October, and is a campaign to raises awareness about the importance of musculoskeletal health and the prevention of bone and joint disorders. It highlights to the population how important it is to take steps to maintain healthy bones and joints through physical exercise, healthy diet and regular medical checks ups, whilst educating people on common conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and back pain.

Every moment of every day our musculoskeletal system is hard at work, allowing us to move, function, and enjoy life. Musculoskeletal health encompasses a wide range of conditions and issues related to the bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and other connective tissues in our bodies.

There are more than 200 musculoskeletal conditions which over 20 million people in the UK, almost one third of the population, suffer from. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, limited movement, and disability which affect quality of life and independence.

Ways to keep your bones and joints healthy:

Exercise - certain weight bearing exercises can help keep bones healthy as it increases bone density. By making bones stronger, they are less vulnerable to breaking. It also helps to protect joints as the muscles that surround joints are stronger.

Lose weight - with increased body mass, joints are forced to bear a heavier load than they are equipped to manage. This can wear down cartilage in the joints and leave you prone to arthritis, injury, and pain.

Avoid smoking - smoking can negatively affect bone and joint health. It impacts the musculoskeletal system by reducing the blood supply to bones and affecting their ability to store calcium, whilst reducing the amount of cartilage surrounding joints, making you more prone to some conditions.

Use medications cautiously - some medications can have side effects that affect the musculoskeletal system. Some common medications have been associated with decreased bone density.

Healthy eating - eating a diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D can help improve the health of your bones. These minerals work together to increase bone health.

Avoid injury - Using common sense when performing daily activities can save you from injuries. Wearing protective gear when doing certain activities, wearing seat belts in vehicles, wear sensible shoes and ensure you ease your way into new physical activities.

If you are suffering with bone or joint pain, or any other musculoskeletal condition, get in touch with your GP practice today and book an appointment with your MSK.