How Seniors Can Reduce Joint Pain
September 10, 2024 | Kathy Ingulsrud
Are you dealing with joint pain? Does it leave you feeling incapable of doing the things you once enjoyed? Unfortunately, joint pain is a common occurrence for adults, especially as we age. According to a 2022 study, 70% of older adults reported experiencing joint pain. Fortunately, there are numerous things you can do to reduce and alleviate joint pain. Let’s look at what you can start doing today to find some relief.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity is beneficial for managing joint pain. Despite the discomfort, staying active can help to alleviate joint pain. Find activities that you enjoy doing and that are gentle on the joints, such as swimming, walking, or yoga, in order to maintain mobility and reduce stiffness.
How Seniors Can Stay Healthy With Everyday Movement
Using Joint Support Aids, Supplements and Medications
Talk to your doctor about potential solutions to help alleviate joint discomfort. This may involve trying various forms of joint support aids, such as braces and orthotics, as well as the use of supplements and medications for pain relief and managing inflammation.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
If you are carrying extra weight, this can actually increase joint pain. Carrying extra pounds over time puts a strain on your body, which not only leads to joint problems but can also lead to other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight is an important factor for overall well-being and managing joint discomfort.
Try Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be beneficial for individuals experiencing joint pain. During physical therapy sessions, individuals can learn specific exercises designed to increase flexibility and mobility while reducing joint pain. Physical therapists help you take a personalized approach to improve overall joint function and enhance the individual’s quality of life. Medicare plans often cover physical therapy with a copay or coinsurance at in-network providers.
Eat Healthy Foods
Consuming a diet that primarily consists of highly processed and packaged foods can lead to inflammation in the body. This inflammation is a significant factor contributing to joint pain. Because of this, it is essential to regularly incorporate healthy and minimally processed foods into your diet to maintain overall joint health and reduce the risk of experiencing discomfort.
Learn More: Healthy Eating Tips for Older Adults
Did you know that some Medicare plans may even provide extra benefits to promote a healthy lifestyle, such as gym memberships, an allowance for select pharmacy items or discounts on healthy foods at the grocery store? Contact Twin City Underwriters for more information on what is covered under your specific plan.
Choosing a Medicare plan can be difficult. Twin City Underwriters helps Medicare recipients in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Florida find the Medicare plan that meets their unique needs. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with one of our Medicare insurance brokers to get your questions answered!
Do you need help with Medicare, insurance and health plans? Explore your options with Allina Health Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield of Minnesota, Medica, UCare, United HealthCare and more. We work with you to find the best plan for your needs and budget. Contact us today to get started.
