We live in an age of miracles, where organs are swapped out and parts are replaced as a matter of routine. That’s terrific, but wouldn’t you rather keep your own junk in working order? Following these simple tips may well end up saving you a trip down the road to the body shop.

1.) Choose the right exercises and stretch daily: Don’t choose exercises that put your joints at high risk for injury. Exercises that include constant pounding, start/stopping motions, shuffling and twisting will eventually wear down the joints and possibly cause injury. Instead, choose exercises that are low-impact on the joints such as cycling, walking and swimming. In addition to daily exercise, you should stretch every day. Improving your flexibility will help you avoid injuries to the joints in the long run.

2.) Don’t allow your weight to become a big issue: An average person takes 2,000 to 5,000 steps daily, so every five-pound gain increases the force on your knees by 100,000 pounds per day. Think about it. Over the years, your knees will wear down faster if you weigh more. In addition, the extra weight will put more strain on your lower back and on the discs in your spine.

3.) Take vitamins and supplements: Taking vitamins and supplements on a daily basis is a simple thing you can do to help support and maintain joint health. Consider taking a high-quality supplement that has glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM in it. Include Vitamin D3 and Omega-3 fish oil supple- ments too, as these have also shown to help lubricate, support and protect the cartilage in your joints.

4.) Get regular chiropractic care: Chiropractors are specialists in spine and joint problems, so visiting them regularly keeps your spine moving properly. If you don’t have a chiropractor, select one who is trained in multiple techniques. For instance, the Activator technique is a gentle type of chiropractic treatment that is a good option for seniors. With this technique, there is none of the usual popping or cracking that one might associate with chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors can also utilize non-invasive spinal decompression, cold laser therapy and other forms of physiotherapy to help patients that suffer with more severe arthritis, disc problems or pinched nerves.

Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C., is a DFW-based doctor specializing in spine and joint issues since 2001 at the DFW Spine & Joint Center. For more information call 214-596-1051 or visit HelpMyKneePain.com.