Myth Vs. Reality: Understanding The Truth About Bone And Joint Health

Despite being a crucial component of general well-being, bone and joint health are frequently misunderstood. These misconceptions can worsen pre-existing diseases and influence bad health decisions. Knowing the truth about bone and joint health is essential to preserving mobility, avoiding conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis, and guaranteeing a high standard of living as we age. Let’s address the myths and misconceptions about bone and joints. Dr Debashish Chanda, Lead Consultant, Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram has shared his valuable insights.

Myths About Bone And Joint Health

Here are the myths vs. reality about bone and joint health:

Myth 1: Only Elderly People Need To Worry About Bone And Joint Health

A prevalent misconception is that bone and joint health exclusively affects the elderly. However, in reality, it’s crucial to keep your bones and joints healthy at any age. A balanced diet high in calcium and vitamin D, together with regular exercise, can help preserve bone density and joint function as you age. Bone mass peaks in your twenties and later on starts to lose calcium. Joint problems can also affect young people as a result of repetitive stress, bad posture, and traumas.

Myth 2: Drinking Milk Is the Only Way To Get Enough Calcium

Although milk is a rich source of calcium, there are other ways to get this mineral. Many people avoid dairy products because they are lactose intolerant. Leafy greens like broccoli and kale, almonds, tofu, fortified plant-based milk, and fish like salmon and sardines are better alternatives to non-dairy sources of calcium. You don’t need milk to get enough calcium from a balanced diet.

Myth 3: Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis

It’s a common misconception that knuckle cracking can lead to arthritis, however this is untrue. No research demonstrates a link between arthritis and knuckle cracking. The discharge of gas bubbles in the joints’ synovial fluid is what produces the sound. But over time, prolonged knuckle cracking might cause hand oedema or diminished grip strength, so it’s better to avoid developing a habit of it.

Myth 4: Supplements Are Enough To Maintain Bone Health

Supplements can be beneficial, but a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are always preferable. Supplements such as calcium and vitamin D may be helpful, particularly for people whose diets do not include enough of these nutrients. For the best possible bone health, they must be used with weight-bearing activities, a sufficient protein diet, and other minerals like magnesium and vitamin K. It is insufficient to rely too heavily on supplements without also addressing general food and lifestyle choices.

Myth 5: Exercise Worsens Joint Pain

Some people consider exercise (exercises for joint and bone) to exacerbate joint discomfort, especially in cases of arthritis. However consistent low-impact exercise is essential for maintaining joint health. Exercises that strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints, increase flexibility and lessen discomfort include walking, cycling, and swimming. Maintaining a healthy weight also eases the burden on your joints through exercise.

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Myth 6: Osteoporosis Only Affects Women

Men are also susceptible to osteoporosis, even though it is more common in women, particularly in postmenopausal women. Men typically acquire osteoporosis later in life, but because it is diagnosed and treated less frequently, they have a higher risk of fracture when they do. As they age, both men and women should take the initiative to preserve bone health through nutrition, activity, and routine bone density tests.

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Debunking myths regarding the health of bones and joints is essential to manage and avoid disorders that can reduce mobility and quality of life.

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