Physical activity

Movement is the be-all and end-all

The health benefits of movement

Movement enables basic needs to be met, emotions to be expressed, tasks to be completed and mobility to be achieved. No matter what the action, young or old, movement is always essential. However, it has more than an external effect, it also has an internal effect, because it increases blood circulation, stimulates lymph flow and metabolism, reduces fat deposits and builds muscles, stabilizes the immune system and the psyche. Anyone who does not move for a long time feels noticeably unwell and unbalanced.

Restricted movement

Being restricted in movement not only means having to do without sports, but also everyday things are difficult to manage. Acute bone fractures in the arms or legs, for example, can paralyze the entire daily routine for a certain period of time. Every movement becomes a torture if a joint or tendon is inflamed.

Facts and figures

What you should know

Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most common chronic
diseases in Germany.

Those affected and their relatives suffer a considerable burden, as they can severely impair physical functioning and thus participation in activities of daily living

The most common joint disease worldwide is osteoarthritis.

The degenerative changes in the joints begin with slowly progressive damage to the articular cartilage, which can extend to exposure of the bone. Adjacent muscles and ligaments may also be affected. With age, the risk of developing osteoarthritis increases, while women are more frequently affected than men.

Source: DGRh

Facts and figures

Exercise and nutrients

In addition to regular exercise, the correct supply of nutrients to the body is of great importance for the musculoskeletal system.

Exercise is often neglected in everyday life. Yet exercise is very important for bones, joints and muscles. To prevent painful wear and tear or inflammation of the musculoskeletal system in the first place, certain preventive measures should be taken.

Tips for strengthening and protecting the joints:

• Regular exercise. Find the right workout e.g. swimming, Nordic walking or gymnastics (the range of health courses is very large and is partly covered by health insurance)
• Sitting correctly (when sitting for a long time, the spine should be in its physiological shape)
• Paying attention to body weight (the optimum weight can be calculated using the body mass index (BMI))
• The right nutrients (our joints are supplied with important nutrients, so it is very important to supply these to the body)

Vitamin C, zinc, copper and selenium are nutrients known to have a positive effect on the musculoskeletal system.

Source: DGRh