Recent research has revealed 8 more genes linked to osteoarthritis, bringing the total number of suspects to 11.
Osteoarthritis accounts for a large proportion of joint pain and dysfunction
A study at Newcastle University, funded by the Arthritis Research Council has reinforced what practitioners and sufferers have suspected for some time.
Osteoarthritis affects over 40 % of the population over the age of 70 but practitioners commonly see patients in their 40’s onward, all relating the same story; “well it runs in the family you know”.
Whilst osteoarthritis is linked to injury and joint trauma, it is thought that inherited factors account for over half of the cases in the UK.
The research, published in The Lancet compared the DNA of 7,400 UK osteoarthritis patients with that of 11,000 healthy volunteers.
Being able to track down the main gene offenders gives scientists a greater understanding of the condition, how it affects our joints and look at potential new treatments.
Nordic Walking is becoming a very popular form of exercise and suitable for any age group or ability.
Originating in Finland, Nordic Walking started it’s existence as an endurance technique used by cross country skiers to allow them to train in the
Leki Nordic Walking poles from Simply Hike
summer months.
Recent developments in materials and construction of walking poles revolutionised the technique and in the late 1990’s Nordic Walking was born, becoming a popular exercise regime for many.
Utilising our normal walking motion, Nordic Walking is much less stressful to the joints of the knees, hips and lower back than jogging or running. When this walking motion is combined with the use of the poles, about 80% of the body’s muscles are exercised.
Nordic Walking is an excellent way to lose weight, 1 hour of brisk Nordic Walking can burn around 350 – 400 calories, double that of jogging and like all exercise, increases heart and lung function.
For all the family
Because Nordic Walking is suitable for all ages and abilities, it is a wonderful fun way for a family to keep fit and enjoy the great British outdoors together.
Nordic walking poles are easily adjustable, so lend themselves very well to introducing fitness to younger members of the family.
Inexpensive The only equipment required for Nordic Walking, is a good pair of shock absorbing walking poles and suitable trainers or walking shoes. As long as appropriate clothing is worn, this sport can be undertaken anywhere, at any time of year by all ages and abilities.
Leki Nordic Walking Poles
Leki poles are renowned for their quality and durability and can be purchased securely via our affiliate link with Simply Hike.
The embedded video below shows the basic way to Nordic Walk, as well as some very useful information on pole adjustment.
Many videos show people striding out way past their normal range…we don’t advise this because;
Too wide a stride results in a hard heel strike which transmits shock to the knee, hip and spine.
The resting leg is often hyper extended, which means the knee joint is being locked backwards, resulting in excessive cartilage wear.
We advise a relaxed walking stance such as that adopted by Nate in the video, keeping the knees soft and slightly flexed.
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