Joints

They are indispensable for most of our body's movements. They also act as shock absorbers by cushioning movements and impacts. When we walk, run or hop, for example, a pressure is exerted on our knee and hip that may correspond to four or eight times the weight of our body. Healthy, elastic joints absorb this pressure without any problems and distribute it evenly on the bone. Healthy joint cartilage is very smooth and flexible and prevents the bones from rubbing painfully against one another and wearing away. Around the joint is the joint capsule, a hollow space that is filled with fluid that serves as a lubricant for the joints. Shouldn't we pay much much more attention to our joints?