THE Five M's Of Good JOINT HEALTH
Dr Andrew Letchford | Orthopaedic Surgeon
1. Movement
50 percent of age-related joint degeneration is thought to be related to disuse, so keep in mind the
adage of use it or lose it.
2. Muscle
Maintaining muscle strength prevents abnormal and dyssynchronous joint movement, which leads to
rapid, sometimes exponential joint degeneration, the same as in any mechanical setting. Maintaining
muscle strength is imperative in reducing joint wear.
3. Mass
Excess body mass increases joint reaction forces, so try to keep to a healthy weight range. Be as fit and
as healthy as you can while maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle.
4. Maintenance
Appropriate exercise is important, so run if you can; when you can’t run, walk; when you can’t walk,
swim; when you can’t swim, cycle. At age 50 many people’s knees don’t like running but walking,
swimming and cycling are effective substitutes. Finding a low impact exercise that works for you
is the key.
5. Merriment
All the above is much easier if it is done in a fun, friendly environment. There is a quote in
the Christopher McCandless’s story, ‘Into the Wild’ that fits: “Happiness isn’t real unless
it is shared.” So, organise yourself to be with a group of friends and find a common shared
love of exercise or some form of energy-burning activity. This will turn a resolution into a
permanent lifestyle choice.
Telephone: 07 5527 1818 Fax: 07 5526 4788
www.dr-andrew-letchford.com.au