Is it possible, like fine wine, to get better with age? In some ways, by staying healthy and remaining active, we can. In fact, studies show that older people who continue to have active lifestyles, experience less health problems as they age.
The progression of aging and it’s affects on how we function differ widely among individuals. Over the course of time, the normal aging of tissue causes changes to the anatomy. This is especially true in degenerative changes of the spine. In most people, these changes are gradual. In fact, many people have degenerative changes and don’t know it. They may only become aware of these changes when being examined during a routine checkup.
Degeneration of the spine is complex and often unpredictable. When degenerative changes occur in the joints, accompanied by pain and swelling, it is referred to as osteoarthritis. Other degenerative conditions that affect the spine include:
• Osteoporosis
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Osteoarthritis
Choose Safe Activities
Before starting any new exercise program, be sure to see your doctor. Talk about the types of activities you are interested in doing and make sure your doctor gives you the ok to do them. You may want to ask your doctor the following questions:
• “Is it safe for me to exercise?”
• “What types of exercises are best for me?”
• “Are there any types of exercise I should avoid?”
• “Do any of my medications make it dangerous for me to do endurance exercises?”
While you can’t stop the aging process entirely, you can take steps to keep yourself as healthy as possible as you age. The benefits of regular exercise are numerous, so start today! Find an activity you enjoy and find out how wonderful it is to get older!
Article reprinted from Spine Universe
