By Deborah Westergaard, MD
Pain Experts
Over the decades that I’ve practiced pain management and now non-operative orthopedics with a focus on orthobiologic treatments, I’ve watched countless individuals evolve from fully functional people experiencing some discomfort to later stages of life where mobility becomes a challenge. What’s interesting is how vastly different this experience can be for each person.
We’re all unique in how we age—some of it comes down to genetics, but a lot of it is tied to our attitude and the lifestyle choices we make. Throughout my years of treating patients, I’ve seen several patterns emerge, and I believe the key to maintaining joint health and mobility as you get older is breaking free from certain myths and misconceptions.
The Problem: Misconceptions About Aging and Mobility
For many, the decline in mobility, weight gain, and loss of function are seen as inevitable signs of aging. These are the patients who often tell me that their parents and grandparents suffered the same fate, so they assume it’s their future as well. They believe they are helpless in the fight against Father Time. But what I’ve observed is that much of this decline can be attributed to lifestyle choices—from poor dietary habits to the lack of movement—not simply the passage of time.
There’s a stubborn attachment to processed foods, sugary treats, and highly refined products that have become symbols of American convenience. For some, this mindset around food feels unchangeable, even as it impacts their health. These individuals often look at their aging as the problem, rather than the lifestyle they’re leading.
On the other hand, there are those who would love to be more active but hurt too much to even consider exercising. The pain from their joints is so overwhelming that it feels impossible to move. And yet, movement is key to keeping joints functional. Muscles support joints, and when you stop moving, muscles weaken, placing more stress on tendons and ligaments.
The Solution: A Holistic Approach to Aging Well
What I’ve found in my practice is that much of what we perceive as the inevitable decline of aging comes from misconceptions or outdated beliefs about what it means to grow older. If you’re committed to prioritizing your health—through exercise, nutrition, and taking advantage of orthobiologic solutions—you can absolutely maintain a high quality of life as you age.
Here’s how:
Commit to Exercise: No matter how busy you are, you must carve out time for exercise and mobility work. The key to sticking with it is accountability. Whether it’s an exercise coach, a workout buddy, or even regular sessions with your physical therapist, having someone to keep you on track is vital. Remember, physical therapy may not feel exhausting, but it’s essential for building muscle strength, balance, and joint support. All of this adds up to healthier, more resilient joints.
Adopt a Better Diet: A diet rich in whole foods, free from processed junk and sugary temptations, is critical to joint health and your overall well-being. What you eat directly impacts your ability to move and feel good, and the difference between processed foods and nutrient-dense, real food is remarkable. Healthy eating supports your body’s natural ability to heal, maintain muscle, and keep joints moving smoothly.
Supplement Wisely: Supplements can be a game-changer when it comes to supporting your joints, muscles, and overall health. While everyone’s needs are different, working with a physician to determine which supplements will support your body’s specific requirements is a great way to optimize your health as you age.
Consider Orthobiologic Treatments: When you experience tendon tears, ligament instability, or other joint issues, orthobiologic treatments like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or stem cell therapy can offer solutions without surgery. These treatments work by harnessing your body’s own healing properties to repair damaged tissues and improve joint stability.
What This Means for You
Growing older doesn’t have to mean giving up the activities you love or watching your mobility slowly decline. With the right attitude and commitment to healthy living, you can stay active and pain-free well into your later years. By prioritizing movement, a healthy diet, and cutting-edge treatments, you’re setting yourself up for a long, joyful life full of vitality and movement.
What This Means for Doctors
For fellow physicians, this is a reminder of the importance of addressing lifestyle factors when discussing aging with patients. Mobility, nutrition, and orthobiologic treatments go hand in hand in offering patients long-term solutions for joint health. By educating patients on the critical role of exercise, diet, and advanced treatments, we can help them break free from outdated ideas of aging.
Call to Action: Stay Mobile, Stay Healthy with Pain Experts
At Pain Experts, we believe in treating the whole person. From helping you find the right exercise plan to supporting your joints with orthobiologic treatments, we’re here to guide you through every step of aging well. Let’s work together to keep you active, mobile, and living your best life—no matter your age.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you optimize your joint health and stay in motion.
DisclaimerThis post is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be taken as specific medical advice. Each individual patient is unique, and medical conditions vary greatly. The content shared here does not replace a personalized evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have a health concern or are considering treatment options, please consult your physician or specialist for a comprehensive assessment tailored to your individual needs.
Please note that some treatments or approaches mentioned may not be appropriate for all patients or may not be available in all regions. Always seek professional advice before making any decisions about your health or treatment plan.
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