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health & fitness

Body Awareness
by Paula Allia, PT, DHSc, MTC, OCS

steoarthritis is a type of arthritis The knee joint has the highest prevalence for osteoarthritis followed
associated with the breakdown of by the hip joint. The numbers have been not only climbing but it
Othe cartilage at the ends of the bones is recognized that the younger population is developing OA much
where joints are formed. It is associated with earlier than in the past. This may be due to the fact that there is a
the bony joints in the body getting inflamed rising amount of obesity, particularly in the United States. On the
and stiff. Some people are not even aware that other hand, there are growing numbers of people who are getting more
they have osteoarthritis, until the pain sets in. involved in a more active lifestyle. Both of these can cause problems if
Abnormal wear and tear can occur in the the joints are not aligned properly.
body at the joints. Normally, there is a layer of cartilage, called hyaline From infancy, the body goes through developmental milestones
cartilage, that gives the ends of bone its shiny appearance. These where the neuromuscular system (the interaction of the nervous system
naturally aligned joints, surrounded by joint fluid (synovium) function and muscles) develops and acts on the body to strengthen the body,
by the bones gliding, rolling and or sliding along each other to create overcome reflexes, and develop the body to function in all sorts of
a purposeful movement that one requires to participate in everyday interactions, movements, and ultimately sporting activities. The body
activities and highly specific sport training.. So what causes these was not meant to be sedentary.
joints to break down and develop the beginnings of osteoarthritis? Utilizing muscles on both sides of the joints are key to developing
How can one help prevent this from occurring? Does the breakdown a more fluid and biomechanically correct body in regards to motion.
in joints only happen to older people? Children should be encouraged to participate in activities on all
First, understand that if joint alignment of bones are good and the terrains. This helps the muscles of the foot develop its arch. This is
integrity of the ligaments and cartilage are properly doing their jobs pertinent for a stable base for the rest of the leg muscles to strengthen,
that is ideal. If ligament or cartilage damage occurs, or a joint is not have flexibility, but at the same time provide structures and support the
aligned right in the first place, this is a red flag for how to maximize joints. If this was not done or an injury was sustained when younger,
the joint’s ability while in a compromising situation. Keep this in the motions of the body may not be ideal. Supporting a joint that is
mind. not structured properly can cause many problems. Providing some
Everybody develops patterns in life. These patterns can be as structure such as an orthotic may help to align the leg from the ground
simple as sitting for long periods of time either on a computer up. This does not replace muscle activity, however.
or at a job. Postural conditions enter into a routine occurrence. Take a look in the mirror. Are the legs similar in alignment at the
Subsequently, some muscles tend to tighten up from a prolonged hip, knee, and foot? Is one leg shorter than the other? Be proactive
shortened position while others are lengthened on the opposite side and address any concerns you may have to help your body balance and
of the joint. Some muscles then get inhibited and, over time, this last longer!
Here’s to Your Health!
inhibition will cause weakness.

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