Our bodies undergo various changes as we age, impacting our physical strength and overall health. The loss of muscle and the loss of strength are two important changes that we need to counteract. While these changes might seem inevitable, a powerful tool at our disposal can significantly mitigate their effects: resistance training. Often overshadowed by cardio exercises in popular fitness culture, resistance training is crucial, especially for older adults. It goes beyond just enhancing muscle mass and strength; it’s about preserving functional independence, maintaining metabolic health, and ..read more

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions worldwide. Traditionally viewed as a wear-and-tear disease, recent advances in molecular biology have reshaped our understanding of OA. OA is a multifaceted disease involving intricate molecular pathways. This article delves into the molecular aspects of OA, focusing on the roles of inflammation, biomarkers, and genetic factors in its progression. The Molecular Basis of Osteoarthritis At its core, OA involves the breakdown of cartilage, the resilient and smooth tissue covering the ends of bones ..read more

Shoulder pain is a very common issue. Most folks with shoulder pain do not recall any injury. They are also surprised because “they didn’t do anything” to injure it. Well… they also didn’t do anything to prevent these common issues from arising either :-). A pain-free shoulder requires a strong rotator cuff, good posture, and a healthy metabolism. Whether you are being proactive and want to decrease your risk of developing shoulder pain, or you recently recovered from a bout of shoulder pain and don’t want it to come back— this post is for you ..read more

In endurance training and longevity circles, ‘Zone 2’ has become a buzzword, often tossed around… but not fully understood. While many associate ‘Zone 2’ with specific heart rate or power output targets, its true essence lies in the physiological response it evokes, fuel partitioning, and the adaptations we seek to improve upon. In this, I delve into why true low heart work is important, what we should seek to accomplish, and why we also need high heart rate domain work ..read more

Osteoarthritis, a condition commonly associated with aging, has long been attributed to joint “wear and tear,” often blamed on activities like running. It turns out this isn’t always true. Research has shed light on the complex biological factors that contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. By exploring these underlying mechanisms and examining the role of metabolic health, prior injury, cellular responses, macrophage ‘polarization,’ and biomarkers such as IL6 and COMP, we can start to dispel the misconception that osteoarthritis is solely caused by mechanical strain ..read more

In the realm of orthopedic health, joint issues stand out as common afflictions troubling a significant portion of the population. While traumatic injuries and genetic predispositions are well-recognized contributors, there’s an increasing awareness of the role played by lifestyle factors, particularly sedentary behavior and poor metabolic health. This article delves into how these elements exacerbate joint problems and intensify pain, offering insights into mitigating their impact through lifestyle, exercise, or medical interventions. The Rise of Sedentary Lifestyles In our technology-driven ..read more

When we think about musculoskeletal disorders – be it joint pain, muscle stiffness, or tendon issues – the immediate assumption often leans towards mechanical wear and tear. It’s easy to attribute aching knees or a stiff shoulder to the physical demands placed upon our bodies over the years. However, this perspective overlooks a crucial element in the equation of bodily health: our metabolic health. The burgeoning field of medical research is increasingly spotlighting the profound impact of metabolic health on our musculoskeletal system ..read more

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, a condition marked by the gradual loss of joint cartilage, is increasingly prevalent in the modern world. This article delves into the complex interplay between metabolic health, lifestyle choices, inactivity, sarcopenia, and weakness contributing to this rise. Additionally, it explores the potential role of GLP1 medications (eg. Ozempic) in managing OA pain, emphasizing the significance of metabolic health improvements over mere weight loss. Understanding Osteoarthritis of the Knee Osteoarthritis of the knee is not merely a consequence of aging or mechanical ..read more

Shoulder pain is a common complaint among adults, potentially with a significant impact on daily activities and quality of life. While various factors contribute to shoulder pain, one of the most notable causes is issues related to the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons stabilizing the shoulder. However, contrary to popular belief, traumatic rotator cuff tears are relatively rare in the adult population. Instead, many rotator cuff tears are age-related and often do not necessitate surgery ..read more

A paradox emerges in the evolving landscape of modern healthcare: as technology advances, the traditional human-centered aspects of medicine, such as the art of physical examination, are diminishing. This shift towards a high-tech, low-touch approach raises profound questions about the future of healthcare and the role of physicians. Simultaneously, doctors are increasingly apprehensive about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to supplant their roles. Ironically, in their response to this threat, many physicians inadvertently adopt behaviors reminiscent of the robots t ..read more