Pictured | Dr. Kristin Lander, DC
After a long winter, there’s nothing quite like spring on the Plateau—sunshine, warmer temperatures, and the return of favorite activities. By June, golf courses are buzzing, hiking trails are alive, and movement is back on the calendar.
But if you’ve been feeling more stiff than spry, you’re not alone. Inactivity over the colder months can quietly take a toll on your joints—and your overall health.
Why Joints Get Stiff
Your joints rely on regular motion to bring in nutrients, flush out waste, and keep cartilage healthy. Without consistent movement, the fluid that lubricates your joints becomes stagnant, and supporting muscles weaken. This leads to stiffness, discomfort, and even pain when you try to get moving again.
Inactivity Affects Your Entire Body
What many people don’t realize is that inactivity impacts your health at the cellular level. Movement triggers your cells to repair and regenerate.
Without it, mitochondria (your cells’ energy producers) slow down, inflammation rises, and the aging process speeds up. Movement doesn’t just help you feel better—it helps you function better, too.
The Problem with “Resting” Too Much
Joint pain often causes people to rest more—but too much rest can accelerate joint decline. The key is the right kind of movement: low-impact, consistent, and focused on full range of motion.
Simple Ways to Get Moving Again
You don’t need to overhaul your routine. Try these easy strategies:
• Warm up before tee time. Gentle stretches like arm circles and leg swings prepare joints for activity.
• Walk more. A daily 20-minute walk, especially on uneven terrain, re-activates joint and core stability.
• Add mobility work. Exercises like cat-cow, bird-dog, and hip hinges keep joints fluid and strong.
You Were Made to Move
Movement is more than exercise—it’s medicine. As the weather warms and activity picks up, your joints and your cells are ready to move with you. The sooner you start, the better you’ll feel—not just this summer, but for years to come.
Favorites Count: 0