When is the best time to plan for age-related injuries?

By Wayne Hansen, D.C. –
Ever have those days where you feel like you are 90? I know I have. Everything hurts and it doesn’t ever seem like it will be ok again, but usually it is. But as we grow older it takes longer and longer to bounce back from injuries and those setbacks. That is why it is important, no matter your age, to get your body in a place where it is healthy enough to get through those injuries that will happen. Dwight Chapin, MD defines age by four factors: age, current level of physical fitness, nutritional health, and genetics. Two of those factors we can control, and it is important to focus improving those as we age. Dr. Chapin gives some tips 1) listen to your body. If you are in pain, figure out why. Often times we just turn off the fire alarm and don’t find out where the fire is. If you range of motion is terrible – work on it. Often, poor range of motion leads to other problems down the road. Also, find a clinician who can help with musculoskeletal problems before they become a bigger issue. 2) The body is made for motion. Exercise! Just get out and do something every day. 3) Lean muscle mass works for you. Not only does strength training help with muscles but it also makes your bones stronger. It doesn’t take a lot of weight either, find a program that works for you and stick with it. 4) Good exercise doesn’t have to be high impact. If running hurts too much, try swimming or biking. Find something that works for you and do it. The time for planning for the future is now, your body will thank you.
Wayne Hansen, D.C. is a Chiropractic Physician practicing at Solutions Clinic in Cottonwood Heights. He specializes in treatment of athletes, particularly cyclists. solutionsclinic@me.com