Latest news with #jointhealth
New York Times
7 hours ago
- Health
- New York Times
4 Ways to Keep Your Joints Healthy
When I was younger, I used to spring out of bed. Now, it's more like a slow heave — my knees and hips protesting as I release a middle-aged groan. But I've gotten some relief by stretching for five minutes each morning. I picked this tip up from Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, a spine surgeon in New York and New Jersey. He told me that he's been doing this every morning to keep his joints and muscles limber. Now I do the same. We should think of our joints as more than just 'hinges on a machine,' said Dr. M. Lucius Pomerantz, an orthopedic surgeon in San Diego. 'We should be nurturing them,' he said. A joint is anywhere two bones meet, and we have about 350 of them. They're essential for movement, flexibility and stability. I asked experts for their best tips on how to keep them supple. Regular movement are critical for joint health, Dr. Okubadejo said. Our hip, shoulder, knee and elbow joints are called synovial joints; they contain fluid that helps nourish the cartilage by preventing wear while the joint is in motion. Movement helps circulate the fluid and lubricate those joints, averting stiffness and discomfort, said Dean Padavan, associate program director of Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship at Atlantic Health. In addition to regular stretching, Dr. Okubadejo recommends 150 minutes a week of moderate to vigorous exercise. That could be gentler, joint-friendly activities such as yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi, or something more intense, like swimming laps. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Is Cracking Your Knuckles Bad for You? A Doctor Weighs In Once and for All
Whether you love it or hate it, cracking knuckles is a common habit we've likely all done at some point. It's one of life's simple pleasures for some people, who crave the satisfying "pop" and immediate sensation of relief. Others may find knuckle-cracking uncomfortable and only experience it when bending their fingers in an odd way. And certain people might find the habit downright annoying or an unwelcome distraction at the office or school. No matter your position on knuckle-cracking, you've probably heard several myths about what it does to the body. Perhaps your parents warned you as a child that cracking your knuckles is bad for you, or that it causes arthritis. Maybe you heard that cracking your knuckles makes them bigger, or leads to crooked fingers. Alternatively, you might've believed that cracking your knuckles regularly keeps the joints flexible. Are any of these knuckle-cracking myths true? spoke with Dr. Natalie Azar, NBC News medical contributor and rheumatologist at NYU Langone Health, about what happens when you crack your knuckles and whether this habit is bad — or good — for your joints. Anatomically, "knuckle" is another name for the joints in our fingers. A joint is where two bones meet, and they're made up of cartilage, ligaments, tendons and synovial fluid. Our body has hundreds of joints, which allow us to move in different ways. The knuckles in our fingers include the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint, where the hand bone connects to the first finger bone, the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, the middle joint which connects the two finger bones, per the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. We also have knuckles in our toes, but the MCP and PIP joints are the ones you usually crack — at least in public. "Cracking" the knuckles refers to a manipulation of the joint by bending or applying pressure, which causes a cracking sensation and sound. "Research shows that the cracking sound is from gas bubbles in the joint bursting or collapsing," Azar tells These tiny gas bubbles occur in the synovial fluid-filled cavity of our joints. "When you stretch a joint and create an increase in joint space, these gas bubbles can form," says Azar. When these bubbles are broken up by "cracking" your knuckle, it makes a popping sound. If you're a seasoned knuckle-cracker, you may notice that certain joints pop more easily or often than others. "It's likely related to differences in anatomy, the mechanics of the joint movement, as well as the characteristics of the joint fluid," says Azar. Joints with more synovial fluid in the cavity may accumulate gas bubbles and crack more easily. The knuckles in our fingers are hinge joints, and we move them very often, which may cause more gas to form. People who are more flexible may have a greater range of motion and find it easier to crack their joints. If you can't crack a knuckle, it's nothing to worry about — but don't force it, Azar notes. Cracking your knuckles is generally harmless and there's no evidence showing it harms the body, according to Azar. Regular knuckle-cracking won't cause the finger joints to become larger or more prominent, per the Cleveland Clinic. However, using too much force can be risky. "Some people who engage in very vigorous knuckle cracking, however, have been reported to suffer from tendon or ligament injuries, or even dislocations," says Azar. When you manipulate your finger to crack the knuckle, this shouldn't feel painful or bend the finger in a very unnatural way. If you experience new pain, stiffness, swelling or limited movement of the joint after cracking it, consult your doctor. Arthritis refers to a number of conditions that cause joint pain and inflammation, including autoimmune diseases, infections, and wear and tear of the joint cartilage. Arthritis symptoms also include swelling, stiffness, redness and limited range of motion. "Fortunately, the research does not suggest an increase in the risk of arthritis (from cracking the knuckles)," says Azar. One researcher took this hypothesis into his own hands, literally. Dr. Donald Unger cracked the knuckles in only his left hand twice every day, but left his right hand uncracked, for over fifty years. Unger then examined his left hand and found no signs of arthritis or other issues, and published his findings in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology in 1998. While knuckle cracking may not harm you, there aren't any proven medical benefits, says Azar. Any increase in flexibility or range of motion you experience after cracking your knuckles is likely temporary. However, this habit could have mental health benefits. "It can maybe be a stress reliever," says Azar. Knuckle-cracking can feel soothing for some people, which is why it's often called a "nervous habit." It can also be a self-stimulatory behavior, which is common among neurodivergent individuals. While cracking your knuckles is usually harmless, you should stop if you experience any new pain, stiffness or swelling. Certain joints are riskier to crack than those on the fingers. These include the neck and back, which are delicate structures comprised of vertebrae, multiple types of joints, discs and the spinal cord. While joint manipulations can be safe under the direction of a professional, it's best to avoid forceful neck- or back-cracking maneuvers on your own, orthopedists warn. Risks include nerve damage, torn arteries or blood clots, previously reported. Always consult your doctor before trying any chiropractic moves at home. This article was originally published on
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
What Happens to Your Joints When You Take Collagen
Reviewed by Dietitian Maria Laura Haddad-GarciaCollagen supplements may support joints, but more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Type II collagen is key for joint health, especially as we age and cartilage breaks down. Diet, exercise and weight management are proven ways to protect and support your feel it every time you go up the stairs, type an email or even make a delicious dinner—joint pain can touch almost every part of your day. It can affect just about anyone, at any time, depending on where and how it shows up. But what if there was a simple way to ease the ache—or even prevent it in the first place? According to some experts and social media, collagen can be it. So, does it actually work? In the early 2000s, that 'miracle fix' seemed to be glucosamine and chondroitin. Though the combo is still commercially available and many swear by its benefits, many studies have shown that it may not make a significant difference when it comes to treating osteoarthritis. Fast-forward today, and collagen supplements are stealing the spotlight—thanks in part to social media influencers who tout them with great aplomb. While collagen is typically known for its skin and hair benefits, many users are also turning to it for joint health. Still, there are plenty of voices in the mix for that, too. So, what's the real story? Can collagen truly help keep your joints feeling strong? We dug into the research and spoke with orthopedic surgeon Sean Peden, M.D., who specializes in foot and ankle care but has a broad understanding of orthopedics. 'Everybody's looking for something that's going to affect the future,' he explains. 'And I think there's some promise, both from a research and from a theoretical point of view. There are reasons to believe in it, so I think that's why it's getting popular.' Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body—making up around 30% of the total protein in most mammals. There are 28 known types of collagen, but about 90% of it is Type I, which is found in skin, bones, muscles and connective tissue. Type II collagen, however, plays a key role in joint health. 'Type II collagen, which is a specialized form, is really what you find in articular cartilage, which means joints, and that's the one that probably were the most focused on as orthopedic surgeons, because that type, that cartilage and joints, has very little reparative capacity,' says Peden. In other words, once the collagen in your joints starts to break down (a natural part of aging), your body has a hard time restoring it. This can lead to familiar issues, such as stiffness, limited range of motion and chronic discomfort. 'Articular cartilage wear is equivalent to degenerative arthritis,' Peden explains. 'This kind of cartilage has very poor ability to heal itself, especially once we are fully grown. The breakdown becomes accelerated with age, and the risk increases with things like increased body mass and trauma. As we get older, this specific cartilage increases its water content, and the collagen becomes less organized and more vulnerable to damage.' So, where do supplements come in? The idea is that taking collagen—often in type II form—might encourage the body to produce more of it, helping to maintain or even rebuild cartilage. While there might be some promise, Peden says that 'Many doctors aren't gung-ho about recommending it, because the data is just not there.' For instance, a small 2016 study found that after three months of treatment, collagen with acetaminophen improved knee pain more effectively than acetaminophen alone—but the sample size was small (just 39 participants), so further research is needed. And one 2023 paper published in Nutrients notes that while 'available research suggests a clear link between collagen ingredient composition/chemical structure and mechanism of action/efficacy, further research is required, including well-designed studies, to assess the therapeutic potential of each collagen type and composition for each clinical condition.' In other words, there really isn't enough good research to back claims just yet. That said, Peden notes that collagen supplements are generally a safe product to take. If you want to try it, you'll typically find collagen in powders, capsules or liquid form. Many people prefer capsules because they don't like the flavor of liquids and powders. According to most brands, you notice any differences after taking it for 8 to 12 weeks. For most healthy people, there's little downside to trying collagen supplements. However, there are a few things to know before you start. Support it with other nutrients: Collagen synthesis relies on key vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, zinc and copper. Many supplements already include these, but a well-rounded, nutrient-rich diet will help, too. Know your source: Collagen can be derived from cows, pigs, fish and eggs. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, read the label closely. Talk to your doctor: While collagen is considered safe—even during pregnancy—and has no significant known interactions with medications, it's always a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. Eat more protein-rich foods: Peden recommends that anyone with a musculoskeletal injury consume sufficient protein. Remember, collagen is the most abundant protein in our body. 'When you eat a piece of chicken, you're going to get a decent amount of collagen in there,' he says. However, he cautions that some of that collagen doesn't get absorbed into your body. Still, eating highly collagenous foods like skin-on chicken, bone broths and whole fish, such as sardines, is a great way to get your collagen naturally. Exercise regularly: Both resistance and cardio workouts help stimulate collagen production. 'If you're using your muscles, the muscles are going to try to hypertrophy or get bigger,' says Peden. This helps with collagen production. If your joints are hurting, stick with low-impact exercises so they are achievable. Maintain a healthy weight: Of course, exercise will probably have this effect, but Peden says that one of the most evidence-based ways to improve joint health is by not putting excessive weight on them. In fact, reducing body fat is one of the most effective ways to prevent osteoarthritis. According to an older study, reducing body fat can reduce the mechanical and biochemical stressors that contribute to joint degeneration. Collagen supplements may offer some joint-friendly benefits—but they're not a cure-all. And while more science is needed to confirm this, taking a high-quality collagen product likely won't do harm. When choosing a supplement, make sure it's independently verified, since the FDA does not regulate them. And be sure to talk to a healthcare provider before starting to take one. Most importantly, don't let supplements replace what we do know works: eating a nutrient-rich diet, moving your body and maintaining a healthy weight. 'I think that the problem sometimes with supplements like this, or with any alternative treatments, is that they can kind of distract patients from the things that are evidence-based, that we know are good,' says Peden. But if you find that collagen does help you, you'll be at the forefront of a promising trend. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
How Barefoot Training Can Make You Stronger, More Athletic, and Injury-Resistant
It might be surprising in a world full of cushioned trainers, gel inserts, and carbon-plated soles, but one of the best things you can do for your body might be taking off your shoes. Barefoot training, which involves lifting, running, or moving without traditional footwear, isn't some fleeting TikTok trend. It's a smart, science-backed strategy to improve movement, stability, and long-term joint health. According to MUSC Health, barefoot workouts can increase muscle strength, endurance, stability, and coordination—all while reducing injury risk. Think of it like this: Your feet are the foundation of every lift, sprint, and jump your body performs. Research suggests that most modern shoes restrict natural motion, weaken stabilizing muscles, and dull the sensory feedback your body uses to stay balanced and aligned. Going barefoot changes that. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of barefoot training, how to ease into it safely, and how ditching your sneakers could be the game-changer your training has been training involves performing exercises (typically strength, mobility, or bodyweight movements) without traditional shoes. That could mean going completely barefoot or wearing minimalist footwear designed to replicate the barefoot experience: minimal cushioning, zero heel drop, and enough room for your toes to spread out naturally. You don't need to ditch shoes entirely or go barefoot in every workout. Most barefoot training happens in controlled environments like home gyms, yoga studios, or strength sessions on rubber mats or turf. In these settings, training without shoes can sharpen proprioception (your body's sense of position and movement), strengthen foot and ankle muscles, and build better biomechanics. 'Barefoot training helps you build strength from the ground up,' says certified personal trainer Amanda Dvorak. 'Your feet have muscles that need to be trained just like any other part of your body. When they're stronger and more engaged, your balance, control, and overall force output improve, which carries over to your lifting exercises and athletic movement.'Modern shoes often restrict natural movement and reduce the workload of your feet. Over time, studies suggest this can weaken the small stabilizing muscles in your feet and ankles. Training barefoot reactivates those muscles, helping you build a stronger, more stable foundation for athletic performance. Training barefoot helps train and strengthen those muscles in your feet and ankles,' says Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, an Olympian and certified USA weightlifting coach. 'Better balance and a solid foundation help athletes perform during activities like sprinting, jumping, and more.' Barefoot training enhances sensory feedback from the ground, which helps you move with greater awareness and precision. This can lead to better balance, improved posture, and cleaner movement patterns, all of which can boost performance and reduce injury risk. 'Shoes can mask poor mechanics,' Dvorak explains. 'When you're barefoot, your body has to stabilize itself, which teaches it better alignment and joint positioning.' Wilkes adds, 'Your feet can feel the ground, allowing your toes to splay naturally and your feet, ankles, and legs to react naturally as well. This feedback can help you adjust your posture and alignment in real time.' Without thick midsoles or cushioned soles getting in the way, your feet have direct contact with the ground. This helps with force transfer during lifts, especially deadlifts, squats, and kettlebell work. The result is more efficient movement, increased strength, and reduced injury most common mistake beginners make is not easing into barefoot training. Your feet need time to adapt, especially if you've spent years in padded shoes. 'Most people go too hard too soon,' Dvorak says. 'Their feet aren't used to being unsupported, and they'll get sore if you don't ease in.' Here's how to slowly transition to barefoot training: Go barefoot during warmups and at home. Walk around your house without shoes to build tolerance. Try ankle circles, toe mobility drills, or light bodyweight squats. 'Once comfortable, you can incorporate barefoot exercises like squats, lunges, or hip bridges into your warmup,' Wilkes says. Add light barefoot strength work to your fitness routine. Think goblet squats, kettlebell deadlifts, or hip hinges. 'Slow, controlled strength work like deadlifts, Turkish get-ups, or stability exercises work great barefoot,' says Dvorak. 'You want to focus on form and control.' Incorporate full barefoot sessions. If you're comfortable, begin training fully barefoot during strength training workouts on safe, stable surfaces. Avoid high-impact movements until your feet are ready. Keep in mind that not every workout is ideal for barefoot training. Stick to these exercises when starting: Deadlifts Kettlebell swings Goblet or bodyweight squats Lunges and step-ups Stability drills (e.g., single-leg balances) Mobility flows and ground-based core work 'Ground-based lifting such as deadlifts, squats, kettlebell work, and bodyweight movements are great for barefoot training,' says Wilkes. 'Any movements that allow you to feel rooted and balanced work well.' Avoid jumping into running or plyometrics without months of barefoot prep. 'I wouldn't run on pavement or do plyometrics barefoot until you've built up some strength and tolerance first,' Wilkes cautions.'If you have a history of foot problems, like plantar fasciitis or flat feet, you should talk to a professional before training barefoot,' Wilkes advises. 'If you notice pain in your arches or heels, you're probably pushing too hard and too fast.' Dvorak adds, 'Anyone with foot injuries, diabetes, or serious balance issues should be cautious. If you feel sharp pain in your feet or knees, or your form breaks down while you're training barefoot, those are signs to scale back or get some guidance.' Barefoot training isn't a magic fix, but it's one of the simplest, most effective ways to boost balance, increase strength, and move better every day. Start slow, stay consistent, and let your feet do the work. So next time you train, try skipping the sneakers for a bit—you might just uncover a stronger, more athletic version of yourself. How Barefoot Training Can Make You Stronger, More Athletic, and Injury-Resistant first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 26, 2025
Associated Press
25-06-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Chuck Norris Lone Wolf Ranch Launches Power Motion, Premium Hip & Joint Supplement for Active Dogs
HOUSTON, June 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lone Wolf Ranch Pets™, the premium pet wellness brand founded by Chuck and Gena Norris, proudly announces the launch of Power Motion™, a soft chew supplement designed to support canine joint health, mobility, and overall vitality. Crafted with clean, functional ingredients, Power Motion is ideal for active dogs, aging companions, and breeds prone to joint stiffness.* What Is Lone Wolf Ranch Power Motion? Lone Wolf Ranch Power Motion is a daily soft chew supplement formulated to promote hip and joint health in dogs. Made with a blend of natural ingredients, including Omega-3 fatty acids, curcuminoids from turmeric root, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and eggshell membrane, this supplement aims to support joint lubrication, reduce occasional stiffness, and maintain healthy cartilage.* The soft chews are crafted without harmful additives, ensuring a wholesome addition to your dog's daily routine. Whether your dog is a working breed, an active companion, or experiencing the natural effects of aging, Power Motion offers a convenient and tasty way to support their mobility and comfort. Key Ingredients in Lone Wolf Ranch Power Motion Lone Wolf Ranch Power Motion FAQ About Lone Wolf Ranch Pets Founded by Chuck and Gena Norris, Lone Wolf Ranch is a premium pet nutrition brand committed to providing high-quality, nutritious dog food. Lone Wolf Ranch formulas are created with ingredients that mirror what your dog would naturally consume in the wild. Each ingredient, including meats, vegetables, fruits, and seeds, is chosen to best support your pet's health, vitality, and youthful spirit. Lone Wolf Ranch currently offers Lone Wolf Power Foods Complete – a premium air-dried dog food. To learn more about Lone Wolf Ranch, visit and follow @lonewolfranchpets on Instagram and Facebook. About Chuck Norris Chuck Norris, 10th-degree Martial Arts Grandmaster and founder of the United Fighting Arts Federation, is best known for Walker, Texas Ranger and action films like The Delta Force, Code of Silence, and The Way of the Dragon. A six-time undefeated Karate World Champion and U.S. Air Force veteran, he's also a dedicated dog lover, with his Lone Wolf Ranch in Texas celebrating dogs as heroes and protectors. Beyond entertainment, Chuck is deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting youth and veterans through initiatives like Kickstart Kids. His Chuck Norris Seal of Approval highlights products that align with his values, including CForce Water, Lone Wolf Ranch Pets, and Roundhouse Provisions. Learn more at and follow him on Instagram @ChuckNorris. *All dogs are unique. Your dog's results can and will vary. Press contact: Ashley Dillahunty [email protected] View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Lone Wolf Ranch Pets
