The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Weight for Joint Health

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall wellness, but it’s especially important for joint health. At Garden State Pain & Orthopedics, we see firsthand how excess weight can strain the body, leading to joint pain and even chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. If you’re experiencing joint pain, your weight could be playing a significant role. Here's why a healthy weight matters and how it can protect your joints.

How Weight Affects Joint Health

Every extra pound adds stress to your joints, particularly in weight-bearing areas like the knees, hips, and lower back. For example, carrying an additional 10 pounds puts up to 50 pounds of pressure on your knees with each step. Over time, this added pressure can cause:

• Joint Wear and Tear: Excess weight accelerates cartilage breakdown, leading to osteoarthritis.
• Chronic Pain: The joints are forced to work harder, leading to inflammation, pain, and discomfort.
• Reduced Mobility: Painful joints can limit your ability to move freely, making it harder to stay active, which is crucial for joint health.

How We Can Help

At Garden State Pain & Orthopedics, our team can help you manage joint pain and guide you on the path to maintaining a healthy weight. Here's how:

1. Weight Management Guidance: We work with you to create realistic, achievable weight loss goals that protect your joints.
2. Physical Therapy: Our physical therapists design personalized exercise programs that strengthen the muscles supporting your joints, making movement easier and less painful.
3. Pain Relief Treatments: If joint pain is preventing you from staying active, we offer minimally invasive treatments to reduce pain and improve your mobility.

If you're struggling with joint pain due to excess weight, contact Garden State Pain & Orthopedics today. We have locations in Clifton, Edison, Jersey City, West Orange, and Hazlet and are ready to help you get back on track with a healthier lifestyle and pain-free movement.