• SKU: JBIT001

• Description: Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee: Stiffness ndash; You may be unable to properly move the knee and this stiffness can be better or worse at certain times of the day. Grinding sensation ndash; You feel a grinding or grating sensation when you move the knee. This is called crepitus and it can be a worrying feeling. This occurs when the bones are rubbing up against the damaged knee joint. Swelling ndash; Accompanying the pain of osteoarthritis of the knee are small swellings. They can be soft or hard depending on the case. Benefits of stretching for seniors: Stretching can help reduce lower back pain and protect the back from injury. Stretching helps you improve your posture, making it less likely you will suffer from back problems and also making it easier to move around in your day to day activities. Stretches benefit you if you suffer from arthritis. Tips for stretching at home: How often should I stretch? ndash; Seniors should complete a stretching session on two or three days out of the week. Each stretch should be held for around 20 to 30 seconds, and each stretch should be performed up to five times. Warm up ndash; It is important to warm up thoroughly before stretching in order not to put too much pressure and strain on the muscles. Correct technique ndash; Stretch slowly and steadily. Don rsquo;t bounce while you stretch because this can cause injury. Stretching should be gentle and not cause any pain. Keep your back straight during the stretch. If you need extra support for your back when you are stretching, wear a fitness harness for mobility. The support takes the pressure off your back, knees and hips. Why is balance important?:Good balance is vital, particularly as you get older. When you balance properly you can control and keep your body position, which makes it easier to walk steadily, get up from the bed or a chair without falling, climb up and down stairs, and bend over without toppling over. All of these movements are essential for everyday activities. Without good balance you are more at risk of falls, sprains, strains, and other injuries. Balance and your knees: The strength you have in your knees plays a part in how good your balance is. When your knees and ankles are weak you are less able to support the weight of your body in a stable position. When the inner ear is not doing its job properly, and you also have weak knees, you are more likely to fall and suffer injury. If you fall as an older adult you are more likely to suffer serious consequences such as a broken bone or a broken hip. Bones and joints tend to take longer to heal when you are older, and you are more likely to experience complications as a result of the fall. Many people become isolated and immobile after a fall. Good balance and strong knees are crucial to prevent falls and fall related injuries.