Bone, Joint and Muscle Health

The bones provide our bodies with support – such as the skull, which is responsible for the formation of our face as well as protecting the skull; the backbone, which is responsible for protecting the spinal cord – the pathway that transmits messages back and forth between the brain and body; the ribs, responsible for protecting the lungs, heart, liver and spleen; and the pelvic, which protects the bladder/reproductive organs and intestines. While bones may seem light, they are also able to withstand weight.

Then there are the joints. The joints are where the bones meet and allow is to be flexible. Without joints, we wouldn’t be able to move at all. In addition, the muscles also play a similar role and aid in flexibility.

The bones consist of calcium, sodium, phosphorus, collagen and other minerals. In order for the bones to stay healthy, calcium is required. When the bones lack calcium or other minerals, they become much more susceptible to fractures and breaks. Calcium is commonly found in milk. If you are lactose intolerant then you may want to consider taking a calcium supplement.

As we overwork our bones, joints and muscles, we become more susceptible to injury. There are a number of injuries that can happen to the bones, joints and the muscles, with the most common being breaks or strains/sprains/fractures. These types of injuries are commonly seen in contact sports, such as football, and occur frequently in school-aged children. RSIs (Repeititve Strain Injuries) can also commonly occur as a result of bone, joint or muscle overuse. For example, if you write or type on a regular basis without taking breaks, you may develop conditions known as carpal tunnel or tendinitis. These can be severely painful and debilitating conditions if left untreated.

The best course of action you can take to treat these types of injuries is, of course, rest – meaning no writing, typing or playing any contact sports until you are fully healed. I also recommend the use of a Coban self-adhesive bandage. Wearing a bandage regularly will help to protect (and better support) your bones, joints and muscles, and will prevent injuries from occurring in the future.