harvardhealth_news_UNDEFINED
Regular stretching becomes even more important as people age. Flexibility naturally declines over time as muscles lose strength and tone, and ligaments and tendons get tighter, which makes many everyday movements more difficult like reaching overhead, squatting, twisting, and bending over. A simple daily all-around stretching routine can help improve flexibility and mobility.
A new study suggests that total daily steps—8,000 to 12,000—and not how many steps you take per minute is related to a longer life.
Combining a standard 12-point biopsy and an MRI-targeted biopsy may lead to a more accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer, suggests a recent study.
The combination of living more in the moment while also focusing on how to cope with future stresses can help people manage stress better than either practice by itself.
Times of stress or trauma can trigger new substance use disorders or lead to relapse in people who are recovering. During these times, the brain seeks to find relief for the most pressing short-term problems, which takes the focus off long-term health. People shouldn’t wait until the problem is entrenched to seek help. Reaching out early brings benefits.
All American adults between ages 18 and 79 should be screened for hepatitis C, according to new guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
People using telemedicine services should be certain that transmissions are encrypted and that the provider is licensed to practice.
Moving more is a worthy goal, but many people dread exercise. That’s often the case because people assume it means a trip to the gym or a stint on a treadmill. But exercise can take many forms, from gardening to dancing or an evening stroll. The key is to find enjoyable activities; people are often more likely to stick with these over time.
There is no universal age to stop screening mammography, but women over 75 should discuss with their doctors whether to continue. Women who are in poor health, have a reduced life expectancy, or are unwilling or unable to tolerate cancer treatments may want to stop screenings. But screenings might be appropriate in older women who are in good health and are willing to undergo cancer treatments if needed.
Osteoarthritis can be a debilitating condition, particularly when it affects the knee. People with this condition may not only have to limit their activity, but may need to restrict their social interaction because they are unable to walk and travel easily. Managing the condition can include a number of options, including medications to reduce pain; nondrug options, such as physical activity and physical therapy; and in severe cases, surgery to replace the affected joint.