Often we don’t realize that some of our everyday activities can cause joint pain. Here are a few tips to keep your joints from hurting:

•Don’t stand too much. Did you know that when you stand for long periods of time you are putting extra stress on your knees and hip joints? Remind yourself to take a few breaks and sit down to rest. Even better, if you can, prop your feet up.

•The counter-side of standing too much is sitting too much. Sitting too much slows the circulation of blood to your lower extremities. It can cause your back and shoulders to ache. Try to get up every ½ hour if possible, or do some stretches at your desk. I use a timer at my desk to remind me to stand up and walk around a little; otherwise I am absorbed in my work and forget it.

Don’t’ get stuck in old routines that can increase or cause pain. Enjoy!