Joint pain? Let's get exercising! - Natasha Eekhout (Paladin Biokineticists)

Who needs a weather report when you have joint pain right?

Joint pain is one of those annoying conditions that can stop life and it’s enjoyments in its tracks. It is extremely varied and is painful yes, where even simple daily activities such as getting in and out of your car is a sharp reminder of your limitations. So much for gardening, walking your dog and playing soccer with your kids outside, you may think. Wrong! Just because you have joint pain, does not mean that you have been given permission to sit on your couch and rot away in front of the television, seeing as you have the perception that exercise will only aggravate your condition.

Joint pain is believe it or not, manageable and in some instances can be treated with exercise, allowing you to return to the usual activities pain free, that you once took for granted. Common causes include arthritis, age, previous injuries, overuse and most importantly inactivity.

Yep it may be tempting to eliminate physical activity because of the pain however, this will only worsen the condition, resulting in further weakening of muscles, bones and joints. Exercise is one of the best natural and cost-free remedies. The right exercises need to be performed correctly and can even sidestep surgery. Weight bearing exercises are especially important for strengthening joints, but should be done progressively with an additional walking or cardiovascular program.

Obviously before starting any form of exercise, you need to consult with your doctor first. It may be recommended that you attend supervised exercise sessions to ensure specific, individualised progressive exercise regimes, focussing on correct technique. That’s what us biokineticists are good at too, developing and mastering a joint pain relief exercise plan for you! Happy Exercising! 

Natasha completed her BSc Sports Science undergraduate degree at The University of Johannesburg and her BHSc honours degree in Biokinetics at The University of the Witwatersrand. 

She has a passion for a variety of sports in particular soccer, tennis, running and kickboxing which have contributed to a strong interest in orthopaedic rehabilitation and working with athletes. Other areas of focus include diabetic and cardiac rehabilitation, as well as weight loss and a keen enthusiasm for working with children of all ages. 

Natasha can be contacted on 082 476 9727 or natashaeekhout@kinetics.co.za