Joint pain isn’t life threatening, but it is quality of life threatening.
A global study showed that joint pain affects more than 40% of Malaysians aged 18 onwards, severely impacting their ability to work, exercise and go about their daily routines. For almost half of us, joint pain is a weekly occurrence, making it hard to spend time on hobbies and to enjoy the shared passions that really matter with our friends and family.
Worryingly, the study also reveals that about 47% of Malaysians with joint pain hide it from their loved ones, often waiting for days before taking action to relieve their pain.
What is joint pain?
It is pain that arises from problems within the joint. A joint is the junction between two bones. There are various types of joints, but the ones we are all familiar with are called synovial joints, which are joints that facilitate movement. The name derives from the word ‘synovium,’ which is the lining of the joint which allows it to move smoothly. Movement is aided by the production of synovial fluid, which is the lubricating fluid found at the joint.
Who suffers from joint pain?
Unfortunately, everybody will suffer from joint pain at some point in their lives. This can vary from minor, temporary pain, like knee aches from a game of football with the kids, to more persistent or debilitating pain, which may require medical attention.
In general, the older we are, the more likely we are to suffer from joint pain. This is because, as we age, our bones may become thinner due to the loss of calcium and other minerals. Other factors that contribute to join pain include joints becoming stiffer and less flexible, loss of cartilage in hip and knee joints, and reduced muscle strength.
What are the causes of joint pain?
This story is from the December 2017 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2017 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
When Depression Strikes Teenagers
It can be difficult to imagine that those in the carefree days of youth can be hit by such a somber illness. However, the numbers don’t lie: a significant number of young people suffer from depression and this figure is on the rise. Our contributing psychiatrist reveals the facts about teenage depression and how to spot the signs.
5 Things You Should Know About Probiotics
If you haven’t heard of probiotics or have been wondering what they are, here are some basics on the topic to get you started.
Internet Safety For Children
There’s nothing more comforting than to have your chicks safely back in the roost as they unwind on their gadgets in the solace of their rooms. But are they truly alone in their rooms and are they truly safe? Online gadgets are windows to another world, and no one is looking out for your child there. So how do we shield them from the unwarranted possibilities that lie in that realm?
A Cuppa Joe, Anyone?
Coffee, one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world, is derived from the beans of Coffea canephora (best known as robusta) and C. arabica. Coffee is unique in terms of its perceived and actual effects on the body and is also loved for its distinct aroma and taste. Our general perception about coffee is that it can keep us awake. However, its benefits go beyond the “wake-me-up” action and it can be categorized as a health drink.
Emilia Clarke - Conquers Real-life Adversities
Her on-screen character, Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones was meant to be a blend of Napoleon, Joan of Arc and Lawrence of Arabia—courageous heroes of the past. But when illness struck actress Emilia Clarke, she had to channel some of that strength and bravery into her real-life situation.
Why You Should Wake Up Early?
Stressed at work? Do you come to work already counting the minutes until you can leave, and is this attitude affecting your work performance? Try coming to work early – researchers found that doing so can improve your productivity as well as your enjoyment of your work considerably.
How To Break Your Children Free Of The Digital Take-Over?
Form seventy-to seven-inch screens… how do we break our children free of the digital take-over?
Celebrating The Legacy Of A Legend Lee Chong Wei
The legendary shuttler needs no introduction. His recent retirement from professional badminton left friends and foes shattered and the badminton scene will never be the same.
Fancy A Date? Heck, Why Not 10?
Who could forget the famous sultry whisper of “Yusuf Taiyoob” come every fasting month. The name is synonymous with dates and is a testament to its marketing success. Dates (Phoenix dactylifera) are very much part of Southeast Asian culture and was probably introduced into the region by the spread of trade. We did some digging around and found that dates are as potent as figs and perhaps that’s the reason our forefathers took such a liking to them.
Warning: It's Going To Get Corny
Longing for smooth, baby-soft feet? Can’t seem to find a way to get rid of those pesky hardened skin known as corns and calluses? HealthToday talks to a podiatrist to find out ways to eliminate corns and calluses safely, and for good.
