This article has kindly been shared by Alison Richmond from Provention
Most people think of supplements or targeted exercises when it comes to joint health, but one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your joints is movement.
It’s true – Motion is Lotion when it comes to keeping your joints strong, mobile, and pain-free.
Why is Joint Movement Essential?
Joints are designed to move, and when they don’t, they lose function – just like a machine that isn’t used regularly.
Staying active keeps joints lubricated, nourished, and functioning smoothly. Here’s how:
✅ Lubrication – Movement stimulates synovial fluid production, which reduces friction and helps joints glide smoothly—just like oiling a rusty hinge.
✅ Nourishment – Your cartilage doesn’t have its own blood supply; it relies on movement to pump nutrient-rich synovial fluid through the joint, preventing wear and tear.
If “motion is lotion,” then a sedentary lifestyle is like rust – causing stiffness, discomfort, and even long-term joint damage.
The Hip Joint: A Prime Example
The hip is one of the most versatile joints, capable of moving in multiple directions. But when we sit for long periods, we limit its range of motion, leaving parts of the joint underused and undernourished. Over time, this can contribute to stiffness, degeneration, and even arthritis – one of the leading causes of hip replacements later in life.
And it’s not just your hips – every joint in your body benefits from regular, full-range movement.
How to Keep Your Joints Healthy & Strong
You don’t need hours in the gym – small, daily movements can make a huge difference:
- Take Regular Breaks – If you sit for long periods, stand up every 30 minutes to stretch or walk around.
- Move Through Full Ranges – Rotate your shoulders, practice hip-opening stretches, or do deep squats to ensure all parts of your joints stay active.
- Get Creative – Dance, garden, or go for a hike – any movement counts!
- Stay Active Daily – Walking, swimming, yoga, and other low-impact exercises help maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
The Takeaway? – Keep Moving!
Joints thrive on motion. By moving regularly, you can reduce stiffness, improve flexibility, and prevent long-term joint damage.
The best part?
Movement doesn’t have to be a chore
– whether it’s squats, salsa, or stretching,
find what you enjoy and keep your joints happy for life!
👉 Pro-tip: Take 5 minutes right now to stretch or walk – it’s a small step toward healthier, pain-free joints
