Why is it important to exercise for joint health?

Due to inflammation and a loss of cartilage and synovial fluid, joint movement becomes stiffer and less flexible as we age. The ligaments' decreased flexibility might also cause the joint to feel stiffer.

 

Osteoarthritis, often known as arthritis, is characterised by a loss in joint fluid and a continuous deterioration of the cartilage at the ends of bones, which results in pain, swelling, and stiffness. It is regarded as a wear-and-tear condition that most frequently impacts the hip and knee joints.

 

Joint lubrication with synovial fluid

 

Synovial fluid in the joint capsule is best compared to the oil in a car engine. An oiled engine operates more smoothly. More movement leads to easier mobility because it produces more synovial fluid, which allows your bones to move more freely around one another.

 

Flexibility

 

Exercises that stretch the muscles around the joints and the ligaments within them help to increase their flexibility. This helps to reduce joint stiffness and can maintain adequate joint motion.

 

Muscle gains

 

When a muscle is worked out, its fibres are torn, but as they heal, the muscle becomes stronger. Muscles grow and become stronger through regular tear and repair, which is advantageous for muscles. Strong muscles work to safeguard and stabilise the joint when it is moving.

 

Increased blood flow and nourishment of the joint 

 

As a result of muscle contractions during activity, the heart must work harder to transport oxygen-rich blood to the body's functioning muscles, including the joints. The oxygen and other nutrients are advantageous to the joint capsule. 

 

Activation of joint-repair genes

 

Although the exact mechanism is still unclear, it appears that joint mobility activates genes linked to cartilage regeneration! You don't want to overdo it, so pay attention to your body.