Taking Control of Your Spine and Joint Health: A Proactive Approach
Blue Daily
| 4 min read
Key Takeaways
- More than half of adults ages 18 and older are impacted by musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.
- A healthy MSK system allows you to move freely, maintain your independence, and enjoy life to the fullest.
- Common conditions that can impact your MSK system include herniated discs, arthritis, osteoporosis and tendinitis.
- BCBSM and BCN offer information and programs to help you and your loved ones enjoy a life of mobility, flexibility and comfort.
The musculoskeletal, or MSK, system includes your bones, muscles and joints.
According to the Orthopedic Research Society, MSK diseases are a widespread health issue in the United States. In fact, more than half of adults ages 18 and older are impacted by these conditions. This number increases considerably among older adults, with nearly 75% of those ages 65 and older experiencing musculoskeletal diseases.
A healthy MSK system allows you to move freely, maintain your independence, and enjoy life to the fullest. Let’s explore the importance of spine and joint health, common conditions that can affect these areas and the proactive steps you can take to maintain a healthy MSK system.
The foundation of good health
Your spine and joints are the foundation of your overall health. They work together to support your body, enable movement and allow you to perform daily activities. However, several factors, such as age, injury or underlying conditions, can affect the health of your MSK system.
Common conditions that can impact your MSK system
Several conditions can affect your spine and joints, including:
- Herniated discs: A condition where the soft tissue around your spine bulges out, causing pain and discomfort.
- Arthritis: A condition that causes inflammation of the joints, leading to stiffness, pain and limited mobility.
- Osteoporosis: A condition that causes your bones to become brittle, increasing the risk of fractures.
- Tendinitis: A condition where the tendons become inflamed, causing pain and stiffness in the affected joint.
Proactive steps for a healthy MSK system
While some conditions may be unavoidable, there are proactive steps you can take to maintain a healthy MSK system. These include:
- Regular exercise: Engage in activities that promote flexibility, strength and balance, such as yoga or Pilates.
- Proper posture: Practice good posture to reduce strain on your spine and joints.
- Healthy weight: Manage your weight to minimize pressure on your joints.
- Balanced diet: Fuel your body with a nutrient-rich diet, including calcium and vitamin D for strong bones.
- Preventive care appointments: Schedule annual physicals and screenings with your primary care provider to monitor your MSK health and address any concerns.
We’re here to help
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network offer information and programs to help you and your loved ones enjoy a life of mobility, flexibility and comfort. For example:
- Our back and joint pain page has information for you about back and joint pain, finding doctors and hospitals, mental health support, responsible use of pain medication and more.
- Care Navigation from TRIARQ Health: This program connects you with a dedicated care team that can help you navigate your orthopedic care needs. Whether you have questions or issues related to your muscles, bones or joints, TRIARQ Health offers support throughout your health care journey. Right now, help from TRIARQ is only available to certain Blue Care Network members and we are reaching out to get these members the information they need.
- Employer-sponsored programs: Our virtual Muscle and Joint Health Program from Hinge Health and our MSK Surgical Quality and Safety Management Program (through TurningPoint) are examples of programs that may be available through some employers. For more information, log into your member account and see what options are available to you.
- Designated Specialty Providers Program: Our health care providers in this program have been carefully selected as high-performing, quality providers who manage costs well for musculoskeletal surgeries. When you need this kind of care, you can find these Blue Distinction Centers while using our Find a Doctor tool. You can also get rewarded and better understand your costs through our Spine and Joint Care Rewards program.
Empowering your health
By taking a proactive approach to your spine and joint health, you can reduce the risk of conditions that may impact your quality of life. Remember, your health is a shared responsibility between you and your health care providers. By working together, you can develop a personalized plan to maintain a healthy MSK system.
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Photo credit: Getty Images
