Dynamic Joint Archives - StonehengeHealth.com

August 22, 2024August 22, 2024

Stay in the Game: Managing Joint Discomfort for Pickleball Lovers

Pickleball paddle and balls on court, shot directly from above in flat lay style

Which sport results in 67,000 emergency room visits per year?

If you guessed football, soccer, basketball, baseball, or hockey, you’d be wrong…

The answer is also America’s fastest growing sport:

Pickleball.

The vast majority of these injuries are happening to people over 60 years old, and it’s taking quite the toll. And for the record, I have nothing against pickleball. We’ve written several articles on the sport, and I occasionally play with my husband and our friends—it’s a fun game.

But the numbers don’t lie, and as with all physical activities, there are risks involved with participating. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do. In fact, with the right preparation, you might be able to elevate your pickleball game while also moving with more fluidity and less joint discomfort than you’ve felt in years.

But before we discuss solutions to these types of injuries, let’s start at the beginning.

The Rise of Pickleball Among Older Adults

Pickleball has rapidly become a favorite sport among older adults, with its combination of simplicity, low-impact exercise, and social interaction. Many communities now have dedicated pickleball courts, and it’s common to see players well into their 50s, 60s, and beyond enjoying the game.

It comes with plenty of benefits:

• Social Interaction: Pickleball fosters a strong sense of community. Players often form bonds that extend beyond the court.

• Cardiovascular Health: The sport offers a great cardiovascular workout, improving heart health without the strain of high-impact sports.

• Mental Well-being: Staying active and engaged in a sport can boost mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

But as I mentioned earlier, it’s not without drawbacks, particularly joint discomfort.

Understanding Joint Discomfort

Outdoor, knee pain and hands of person after fitness accident, injury and muscle tension.

Approximately 90 million Americans suffer from joint discomfort. There are a few common causes you’re likely familiar with:

• Arthritis: A common condition in older adults, characterized by swelling of the joints, causing discomfort and stiffness.

• Tendonitis: Irritation of a tendon, often due to overuse, leading to tenderness around the joint.

• Past injuries: Previous injuries can lead to chronic joint issues and increase the likelihood of joint problems resurfacing or worsening over time.

Joint discomfort often manifests as sharp or aching pain during or after activity, accompanied by swelling around the joints. You may also experience stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity, and the affected area may show signs of redness and warmth.

How Pickleball Can Aggravate Joint Pain

A female pickleball player returns a high pop up as her partner looks on.

Pickleball involves quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and repetitive motions, all of which can strain the joints. There are a number of high-impact movements that are specific to the sport:

• Sudden stops and starts: These can place significant stress on the knees and ankles.

• Twisting and turning: Rapid changes in direction can exacerbate joint discomfort, particularly in the hips and lower back.

• Repetitive motions: Continuous swinging of the paddle can lead to overuse injuries in the shoulders and elbows.

Pickleball is just one example of how many Americans are choosing to stay active. You may not be into pickleball…yet…but you may still be experiencing joint discomfort from another activity you love.

So the question is: How can you prevent or manage joint discomfort and still keep active and continue to do the activities you love?

4 Ways to Manage Joint Discomfort From Pickleball or other activities

couple playing pickleball game, hitting pickleball yellow ball with paddle, outdoor sport leisure activity.

Here’s how to keep yourself in the game.

1. Warm-up and stretching

Portrait of cheerful male athlete doing workout.

Preventing joint discomfort starts with proper warm-up and stretching. Performing dynamic stretches like leg swings and arm circles can help prepare the muscles and joints for activity. It is also important to begin with a gradual warm-up, incorporating light aerobic activity to increase blood flow to the muscles and joints.

2. Proper Technique

Using proper technique is crucial in reducing strain on the joints. Focus on employing good body mechanics, such as bending the knees instead of the back and using the legs to absorb impact. Additionally, practicing good footwork ensures that you are in the right position to make shots, minimizing awkward movements that could lead to joint pain.

3. High-Quality equipment

Hands, tie shoes and start tennis game, person on court with fitness and sports outdoor.

The right footwear and equipment also play a significant role in preventing joint discomfort. Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning helps absorb impact and protect the joints.

4. Give Your Body The Support it Needs With Dynamic Joint

If you’re one of the 92 million Americans reporting that joint discomfort and limited range of motion is affecting your ability to enjoy your daily life (and your pickleball game!) this supplement can be the best decision you make regarding your joint supplement support.*

Dynamic Joint is a breakthrough supplement that supports overall joint health with a new and scientifically backed formula.*

Featuring AprèsFlex®, a proprietary extract of Boswellia serrata gum resin, Dynamic Joint can deliver improved joint comfort in as little as 5 days.* One week you’re reading this article, the next week you’re flying around the pickleball court dominating your friends and neighbors…

When I say this is a breakthrough supplement, I’m not exaggerating. The science and research behind our ingredients speak for themselves:

In a clinical study, participants experienced remarkable benefits with ApresFlex®, including a 24.8% reduction in discomfort, a 47.6% reduction in stiffness, and a 21.2% improvement in physical function compared to placebo.**

Are you ready to leave your joint discomfort behind?

**Percentage improvements were calculated using the percent change between the supplemented group vs the placebo group in a clinical trial using AprèsFlex® at 100 mg/day.

August 8, 2024August 20, 2024

The Truth About Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Matured man suffering from painful knee joint

Which sounds more trustworthy to you?

4,000 ads that say “Glucosamine and Chondroitin will solve your joint issues.”

Or…

4,000 real people with knee osteoarthritis who participated in studies that found “…no convincing evidence that glucosamine and chondroitin provided major benefit.”

I don’t know about you, but I’m choosing the real people and the scientify studies every time. Glucosamine and chondroitin has earned what I call the Beetlejuice effect:

If you say it enough times, people will believe it’s true; even without scientific evidence.

And it seems to be working. The Harvard Medical School reports that consumers will spend $3.5 billion on those two supplements by 2025.

This is frustrating because most of those people will spend their hard-earned money and still not find relief for their joint issues.

What Does the Science Say About Glucosamine and Chondroitin?

Joint pain, the doctor looks at the hologram of the knee joint. X-ray

Let’s dive into the real science behind glucosamine and chondroitin.

Despite the flood of ads touting their miraculous benefits, the actual research tells a different story. Clinical trials and studies have produced mixed results. While some suggest benefits for osteoarthritis, others find little to no effect.

Take the Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), for instance. This significant study found that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate didn’t significantly reduce discomfort in the overall group of knee osteoarthritis patients.¹

Additionally, a 2016 study involving 164 patients with knee pain due to osteoarthritis gave half of them a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin and the other half a placebo.² The study was halted early because those taking the supplement reported worse symptoms than those on the placebo. Yes, you read that right—taking glucosamine and chondroitin actually made their joints feel worse than doing nothing at all.

These findings certainly casts a shadow over the supposed benefits of these supplements.

Despite these mixed results, glucosamine and chondroitin remain popular choices for osteoarthritis relief because they’re believed to help repair and maintain cartilage. But according the experts some of these benefits might just be a classic case of the placebo effect, where people feel better simply because they believe they will.

For some the power of the placebo is enough. And there is even research that indicates placebo isn’t a bad thing.

For others, though. it may be best to follow the research especially when the research indicates side effects.

Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are generally considered safe for long-term use.

However, clinical trials have reported several issues associated with taking glucosamine and chondroitin. These reported side effects include:

• Heartburn or abdominal pain

• Diarrhea

• Drowsiness

• Headaches

• Allergic reactions (particularly in individuals with shellfish allergies)³

These emerging research is why many people are turning to alternative science backed ingredients to ease joint discomfort.

What Actually Works to Relieve Joint Discomfort?

Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Joint.

Dynamic Joint is meticulously crafted with a unique blend of 9 clinically backed powerful ingredients designed to help you move with ease and fluidity.

At the heart of this formula is a potent dose of 100 mg AprèsFlex^® Boswellia serrata.

This patented formulation of Boswellia Extract has been clinically shown to provide significant improvements in joint comfort, function, and mobility. Remarkably, it can start improving your joint comfort in as little as five days.*

For those of you who find yourself hesitating before a flight of stairs, fighting through discomfort during household chores, or forgoing family activities due to joint discomfort, Dynamic Joint could be the answer you’ve been searching for.

It’s not just about enhancing mobility and flexibility; Dynamic Joint is also about maintaining the health of your cartilage, which is constantly battling age and dietary factors. Healthy cartilage ensures that each movement is as fluid as it should be.

So, if you’re ready to stop wasting money on glucosamine and chondroitin and start experiencing real relief, Dynamic Joint is your solution. Say goodbye to the placebo effect and hello to a life of comfort and mobility.

Sources:
1.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19062354/
2.acrjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/art.39819
3.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31073924/

August 8, 2024August 19, 2024

Is Vitamin D the cause of your joint discomfort?

Joint discomfort affects 92 million Americans

This pervasive issue ranges from nagging aches to debilitating discomfort that can cause people to skip even their favorite physical activities.

We recently wrote an article diving into the many causes of joint discomfort, but today, we want to zoom in on a cause that often flies under the radar:

Vitamin D deficiency.

Believe it or not there is a correlation between joint discomfort and low levels of Vitamin D.

So let’s unpack this topic and uncover how a lack of Vitamin D may be contributing to the millions of Americans suffering from joint issues.

What is Vitamin D?

Grillen salmon filet and asparagus on wooden table close up

Vitamin D (often referred to as the Sunshine Vitamin) is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for bone strength and immune function. It exists in two forms:

1. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) from plant-based sources and fortified foods

2. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), which is produced in the skin from sunlight and is found in animal-based foods and supplements

Dietary sources of Vitamin D are limited but include fatty fish like salmon and sardines, fish liver oils, beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks. Many foods are fortified (meaning Vitamin D is added) with Vitamin D, such as milk, orange juice, and cereals.

Vitamin D also modulates immune responses to help protect against infections and chronic diseases. Adequate levels may support muscle function, cardiovascular health, and mood regulation.

But here’s the kicker:

Approximately 42% of Americans are Vitamin D deficient.

This deficiency can lead to various health issues, including bone disorders, weakened immune function, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

The Role of Vitamin D in Joint Health

Hip joint mobility. Fit adult woman practice stretching in deep lunge on a mat in loft white studio indoor

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining overall bone and joint health. Here’s how a deficiency in this essential nutrient can lead to joint pain:

Bone Health

We all know how critical Vitamin D is for bone health. That’s because Vitamin D has a large impact on how the body absorbs calcium. In fact Vitamin D’s primary role in the body is to control calcium levels in the blood. Therefore without sufficient vitamin D, your body can’t absorb enough calcium, leading to weaker bones and an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Weak bones can contribute to joint pain and discomfort.

Cartilage Protection

Doctor surgeon holds a medical model of the knee joint in his hands

Vitamin D helps maintain the health of cartilage, the flexible tissue that cushions joints. A deficiency can lead to the degradation of cartilage, causing conditions like osteoarthritis, where the “cushioning” wears down, resulting in bone-on-bone friction and pain.

Muscle Function

Adequate levels of vitamin D are essential for muscle function. Weak muscles can lead to poor joint support and increased pain, as strong muscles help stabilize joints and reduce strain.

Immune System Regulation

Vitamin D modulates the immune system. A deficiency can lead to an overactive immune response, contributing to autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, where the body’s immune system attacks its own joints.

Sunlight Exposure

Woman reading book relaxing in hammock with her fluffy brown Maltipoo dog on sunny day.

People with joint pain often find themselves trapped indoors, reducing their exposure to sunlight, a natural source of vitamin D. This can create a vicious cycle where less sunlight leads to lower vitamin D levels, worsening joint pain.

Research Findings on Vitamin D Deficiency and Joint Health

Consistent findings across multiple studies have highlighted the role of Vitamin D in maintaining musculoskeletal health.^1-2

Deficiencies are associated with an increased risk of fractures, muscle weakness, and joint discomfort, emphasizing the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels.

Research has also demonstrated a strong link between low vitamin D levels and the progression of osteoarthritis.³

Specifically, vitamin D deficiency was correlated with more rapid cartilage deterioration and increased severity of discomfort.

All this begs the question:

How can you get sufficient Vitamin D in your life?

How to Maintain Optimal Vitamin D Levels

Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels is crucial for health, and there are 3 effective ways to achieve this.

1. Diet: Incorporate foods rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), egg yolks, and fortified products like milk, orange juice, and cereals.

2. Sun exposure: Spend about 15 minutes outside

3. Supplementation: Another practical approach, especially for those not getting enough vitamin D from diet or sunlight. Vitamin D supplements can help maintain adequate levels. Men and Women aged 19-70 should aim to get 600 IUs everyday. That amount increases to 800 IU for men and women 70 and older.

And guess what?

Stonehenge Health has a new supplement called Dynamic Joint formulated to ease joint discomfort in as little as 5 days AND it contains 100% your recommended Daily dose of Vitamin D in the form of D3. Talk about getting the most bang for you buck.

Sources:
1. Laslett, Laura L et al. “Moderate vitamin D deficiency is associated with changes in knee and hip pain in older adults: a 5-year longitudinal study.” Annals of the rheumatic diseases vol. 73,4 (2014): 697-703. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2012-202831
2. Namutebi, Fiona et al. “Vitamin D and its association with symptom severity in knee osteoarthritis: a cross sectional study at a national referral hospital in Uganda.” BMC rheumatology vol. 5,1 56. 27 Dec. 2021, doi:10.1186/s41927-021-00228-w

August 8, 2024August 19, 2024

What Causes Joint Discomfort?

When it comes to joint discomfort, what’s worse:

Sharp and sudden discomfort, or dull and chronic aching?

It’s kind of hard to pick, isn’t it? That’s because they’re both awful in their own ways. And unfortunately, this is far too common…

Around 92 million Americans report the inability to enjoy normal aspects of their daily life due to joint discomfort and limited range of motion.

Some people wake up one day in their mid-30’s clutching their knees and feeling as if this is simply part of getting older.

Others have had slow and steady onset of joint discomfort that’s only getting more intense and debilitating with age.

But have you ever wondered where joint discomfort comes from? As in most things, a better understand of this topic can give us clues how to remedy it.

In this blog post, I’ll unpack everything I know about the causes of joint discomfort.

And if you stick around until the end, I have a little surprise for you…

Let’s get started.

5 Common Causes of Joint Discomfort

A middle-aged woman is stretching in the living room at home.

1. Arthritis

There are two types of arthritis known to cause joint discomfort:

Osteoarthritis: This affects older adults as protective cartilage wears down over time, causing discomfort, stiffness, and swelling in joints like knees, hips, and hands. Aging, joint injuries, or repetitive stress are common causes.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder where the body attacks joint linings, causing damage. It can affect people of all ages, often impacting multiple joints.

2. Cartilage Deterioration

3D rendered Medical Illustration of Male Anatomy - Inflamed Knee.

Picture two hockey pucks with a jelly donut in the middle. The hockey pucks are your bones and the jelly donut is the cartilage acting as a buffer to prevent your bones from rubbing together.

Over time, cartilage can wear away, leading to “bone-on-bone” friction. This causes significant discomfort and restricted movement. Bone spurs and decreased synovial fluid can worsen the condition.

3. Injuries

Mature Woman Sitting On Staircase After Slip And Fall Accident

Strains and sprains from overuse, sudden movements, or accidents can lead to joint issues, swelling, and limited movement. Unfortunately If injuries do not heal properly, they may cause immediate joint pain or develop into chronic issues.

4. Vitamin D Deficiency

Believe it or not there can be a correlation between joint pain and low levels of Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for healthy joints as it reduces cartilage degradation, potentially preventing the development and progression of osteoarthritis.

This issue is often a Catch 22 because low Vitamin D can cause joint issues, and joint issues can cause low Vitamin D. That’s because when joint discomfort can keep people from doing their favorite activities outdoors.

5. Lifestyle Factors

Middle age hispanic couple smiling confident pouring food on frying pan at kitchen

Addressing these can improve joint health and reduce discomfort.

• Obesity and poor diet: Excess weight stresses joints like knees and hips, accelerating cartilage wear.

• Physical inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles weaken muscles and reduce flexibility, increasing joint risk. Regular physical activity maintains joint function and promotes healthy circulation.

• Repetitive stress and overuse: Activities involving repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on joints can lead to overuse injuries. Proper techniques and breaks can reduce joint problems.

• Poor posture: Poor posture stresses joints, particularly in the spine, hips, and knees. Maintaining good posture can alleviate and prevent joint issues.

Addressing these factors through weight management, exercise, proper posture, and healthy habits can significantly reduce joint discomfort.

Managing Joint Discomfort

Stretching senior woman. Body care. Anti aging.

Understanding the root causes of joint discomfort can help in managing and preventing it effectively. But that’s not always easy. Joint pain is a multi-faceted problem and it can have a variety of root causes which is why it’s important to find a well-rounded formula that addresses all the root causes of joint pain and take lifestyle changes into consideration.

Lifestyle Changes

underwater picture of female swimmer in swimming suit and goggles training in swimming pool

Regular exercise in low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling can help maintain joint function and reduce discomfort. A healthy diet rich in foods such as leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts, can support joint health.

Natural Remedies and Supplements

One of the most exciting opportunities in managing joint discomfort is coming from nature. Supplementation with naturally occurring ingredients has long been a preferred choice for millions of people looking for comfort without medication, and it’s about to get even better…

That’s right, Stonehenge Health has a new supplement that will change how we deal with joint discomfort in a massive way.

This formula even contains an ingredient that can help provide joint comfort in as little as 5 Days!

Are you interested in learning more?