June is Men's Health Month, founded to encourage men to stay healthy and prolong life. Unfortunately, current studies show that more than 60% of men are obese, with only 3 out of 5 men getting annual physicals. Due to a culture where men can’t show signs of weakness, they are also less likely to seek healthcare than women.1
Physical and mental demands on men can take a toll on the body, and especially your joints. As men get older, their bodies can’t handle physical stress like when they were younger. The good news is that simple stretches and daily walks are proven to reduce injuries and benefit your overall well-being. A study of adults 40 and older found that taking 8,000 steps or more per day, compared to only taking 4,000 steps, was associated with a 51% lower risk of death from all causes.² Try to increase the number of steps you get each day with movement, such as gardening, walking the dog, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator for better health.
New breakthroughs in regenerative orthopedic care can prolong your joint health, keeping you on the move. Orthobiologics treatments with stem cell therapy can help you stay healthy and heal from sports injuries. PRP injections use your own platelets to accelerate the healing of damaged joints, ligaments, tendons, or muscles.
Minimally invasive surgical arthroscopic procedures for the hip, shoulder, and knee can effectively treat disease conditions and injuries involving the bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and muscles surrounding the joints.
Sports injuries can significantly impact an athlete's wellness. These injuries, which can occur due to various factors such as overuse, accidents, or inadequate conditioning, often result in pain, restricted mobility, and potential long-term consequences. Proper prevention strategies, including adequate warm-up routines, appropriate training techniques, and protective gear, play a crucial role in minimizing the risk of injuries. Prompt and effective treatment, such as rest, rehabilitation, and medical intervention, is vital to ensure optimal recovery and prevent further damage. Prioritizing injury prevention and adopting a holistic approach to wellness, including strength training, flexibility exercises, and nutrition, can help athletes maintain their physical and mental well-being, reducing the likelihood of sports injuries and enhancing overall performance.
Gentlemen, heed the call to live a longer life, with better health. Get your annual check ups and screenings, and seek help from an orthopedic specialist when your joints feel painful, or you experience new symptoms when exercising or being active. Taking time for yourself is essential for your joint health, and overall health and wellness.
Dr. Benjamin Domb, Founder and Medical Director at American Hip Institute, is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine and Hip Arthroscopy. Dr. Domb is rated among the Top Doctors in the USA by the NY Times, US News & World Report, and Castle Connelly.
