In 2015, more than half of all Americans will be older than age 37 and one fourth of the population will be older than 55. Many of these individuals have been active throughout their lives, and they wish to remain active.
One of the most common reasons for doctor visits involves musculoskeletal injuries. Among individuals ages 21-25, 41 percent of these injuries are due to overuse, while among individuals over 60 overuse accounts for 70 percent of the injuries. Moreover, after the age of 40, the average person loses muscle mass at a rate of 1 percent a year. This process begins for some well before they even turn 30.
Common conditions related to overuse include: muscle tendon strains, rotator cuff and meniscus tear, as well as osteoarthritis. Treatment for these injuries may involve RICE (Rest Ice Compression Elevation), physical therapy, medication, injection and sometimes even surgery. Unfortunately recovery time increases with age. This may lead to decline in function, endurance, and strength. Fortunately, injuries caused by overuse are preventable.
“There is no intervention that holds a greater promise of improving health and promoting independence in the elderly than does exercise,” said Kevin R. Murray, MD, orthopedic surgeon, specializing at knee, shoulder, elbow and sports medicine at OrthoNorCal.
Dr. Murray believes that “motion powers life.” He seeks to enhance activity and function in all his patients using the most reliable and advanced treatments available. He believes in participation in sports and exercise throughout life and is a strong advocate for the Lifelong Athlete. Dr. Murray has been involved in sports throughout his life; including, high school, college, Junior Olympic and age group sports. He enjoys all sports and continues to play golf and ice hockey. Dr. Murray holds the unique distinction of being both team physician for and player on gold medal winning world tournament hockey teams.
Physicians and other health professionals can point you in the right direction, but ultimately you are in charge of your own health. The Lifelong Athlete program stresses the importance of exercise, and nutrition, while emphasizing the role of the mind in creating and maintaining health. It’s what you eat and what you do (or don’t) regularly that makes the difference. The real purpose of the Lifelong Athlete, is so you can enjoy an active life more fully. Being active returns the favor by enhancing your overall fitness.
People of all ages can improve fitness and quality of life by maintaining strength and flexibility. Simply keeping active with cardiovascular exercise and resistance training at least 3 times per week can lead to significant improvement in strength and health.
The Lifelong Athlete is a lifestyle. Individuals become more active, improve performance and most important enhance overall quality of life. It is never too late to take charge of your life, health and happiness.