October is National Chiropractic Health Month. National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) and chiropractic physicians across the country are promoting the importance of joint health and the vital role physical activity plays in keeping joints healthy and pain free. This year’s theme-“Get Vertical”-focuses on getting off the couch or out of the office chair, and standing or moving more each day.  Getting vertical is a great way to prevent joint problems later in life.

Most people know someone with joint pain or someone who has had joint replacement surgery. Joint problems, particularly involving hips and knees, are very common. What many do not know, is that simple lifestyle changes can help prevent the need for this type of surgery and keep joints healthier longer.

“No one is doomed to invasive joint replacement surgery in order to remain active and pain-free as they age,” says Dr. Theodore Johnson, dean of clinics at NUHS. “A chiropractic physician can help provide exercise and lifestyle recommendations, nutritional advice, and natural approaches to managing aches and pains. Just a few healthy lifestyle changes, over time, can make a real difference. Spending less time sitting during the day is one such change.”

In honor of National Chiropractic Health Month, National University offers these tips to help you get vertical and stay pain-free:

• Stand up: Office workers can explore the possibility of creating a standing desk area or even “walking work stations” that incorporate a treadmill next to a desk. If you’re stuck sitting all day, you can still stretch your legs with a short walk about every 20 to 30 minutes.
• Take micro-breaks: Frequently stretch your neck, arms and wrists, back, and legs. Simple stretches include neck rotations, fist clenches, arm dangles, and shoulder shrugs.
• Get moving: You don’t have to work out like a pro-athlete, just aim for a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes of exercise three to five days a week.
• Eat right: A healthy diet-rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats-can help reduce inflammation and joint pain. Also limit red meat, refined sugar and white flour. Just a few simple changes can have a positive impact on your
  health.

October is a great month to “Get Vertical” and get proactive about your joint health.  That’s why Dr. Johnson encourages anyone concerned about preventing or alleviating joint pain, or counteracting the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle, to make an appointment with a chiropractic physician at an NUHS Whole Health Center.