From time to time, we see and read media releases highlighting that arthritis is an escalating problem. Reference has been made that being overweight causes excessive pressure to and wearing of the leg joints. To some extent, this is true but being overweight cannot apply excessive pressure to overload joints such as the elbows or fingers. So, where does this excessive load come from? Tight muscles! When opposing muscle become adhered or overstressed, they impose enormous forces on the related joints. After all, we can lift weights greater than our body mass and therefore our muscles can impose forces on our joints, which far exceed our body weight.

So, why should our muscles become excessively tight? There are many common reasons for muscle problems and some of the major causes are:

• Stress ... most people have suffered, for example, tight neck and shoulder muscles, as a result of stress and many develop headaches, as a result.

• Physical trauma ... due to falls and other injuries can result in muscle spasm.

• Exposure to cold, muscles contract to conserve body heat.

• Sprains ... caused by overworking of one set of muscles.

• Fever ... causes a loss of circulation resulting in muscle problems.

• Tight clothing ... causes a restriction in circulation.

• Lack of exercise ... results in poor circulation, the lymphatic system requires movement, to circulate.

• Bad nutrition ... results in a poor supply of essential nutrients necessary for healthy muscles.

• Babies, believe it or not, can develop problems due to trauma, from mishandling at birth.

There are many arthritis preparations available but, for the most part, these address the result and not the cause. One could compare this to a mechanic who patches up an exhaust system, which has failed due to a backfire from the engine without fixing the engine, to stop the backfiring.

So what is the answer? Unfortunately, there is no simple answer but we can take steps to reduce the likelihood of ongoing problems:

• Avoid stress as much as possible and learn to meditate.

• Eat only wholesome foods with proper nutrient balance.

• Be weather conscious ... avoid extremes and rapid changes in temperature.

• Do not drive for long distances without an exercise break.

• Do not over exercise, don't believe "no pain - no gain" this is nonsense.

• Avoid repetitive motion without a break.

If you are susceptible to muscle problems, commit yourself to regular deep tissue massage.

This column is intended to be informative and interactive. Readers are invited to participate, by writing to the Editor.

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Sydney Wellbeing Centre

Colin Ifield 02 9652 0308

Katherine Ferris 02 9652 1818

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