Beware of three kinds of pain after 40

As we age, we tend to suffer from a variety of pains. The latest article published by the American "Online Medical Doctor Network" lists "The three most common types of pain in middle-aged and elderly people."

1. Back pain.

After the age of 40, poor posture and incorrect sleeping habits can increase spinal pressure and cause back pain. Countermeasures: (1) Pay attention to your body posture and the way you lift heavy objects. It is best not to lift more than 25% of your body weight without assistance. (2) Pay attention to the workplace environment. For example, check whether the chair height and computer screen height are appropriate and make adjustments if necessary. (3) Changing to a new mattress or trying a new sleeping position can also help relieve back pain. (4) Try physical or massage therapy, or practice Pilates and yoga.

2. Muscle strain.

Vik Ahluwalia, a physical therapist in Detroit, said that as we age, excessive force is more likely to cause physical injury. Excessive repetitive motion during household chores such as washing clothes, mopping the floor, and cooking can cause chronic shoulder pain. Vigorous movement during exercises such as weightlifting and running can also cause muscle pain. Countermeasures: Do warm-up exercises before exercise and do not exercise for too long.

3. Joint pain.

Statistics show that among Americans aged 65 and above, there are as many as 12.4 million people suffering from osteoarthritis. The disease causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the hip, knee and back joints. Countermeasures: Slow and gentle stretching exercises can improve the elderly’s body flexibility and relieve limb stiffness. Strength training and maintaining a healthy weight can both help reduce stress on your joints and decrease pain. Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications if necessary.