T. Toan Le, MD, associate professor of orthopaedic surgery at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and a UC Health physician, shared a few things you may not know about your bones.
We Grow and Replace New Bones
If a bone breaks, blood cells rush to the fractured area to grow and replace the bone. Our bodies continue to repair and replace bones but at a much slower rate depending on age, health, severity of the fracture and how well the injury is cared for.
The Most Common Injury
There are a variety of causes that could damage a particular joint. These can be related to overuse or underuse. The most common injury is related to the knee joint. These include meniscal and ligament injuries.
Skeletal Injuries Can Have a Lasting Impact
Early wear, tear and injury can lead to arthritis. Arthritis, the breakdown of cartilage, can be caused by injury or other factors such as immunologic, genetic and bone infection.
You Can Manage and Reverse Joint Damage
Joint damage can be reversed by stabilizing the knee joint and preserving the cartilage by reconstruction of the ligament or repair of the meniscus. If joint damage is due to immunologic disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, a rheumatologist can help manage the condition to minimize cartilage destruction.
Healthy Life, Healthy Bones
Maintaining a healthy weight has a significant impact on bone and joint stress. The more stress on a joint, the more likely it will wear down and be prone to injury. Keep a healthy and active lifestyle by incorporating strength training exercises and vitamin D and calcium rich foods into your diet to boost your immune system and prevent injury.
If you are experiencing pain consistently for three or more days, call an orthopaedic provider.
