Mega Doctor News
It’s a simple fact: The body’s joints are vital for movement, flexibility and stability. They serve as the connections between bones that allow us to move, bend and conduct everyday activities.
“No matter what you’re doing throughout the day, your joints make it possible,” says Gerardo Salinas, DPT, CSOMT, FAAOMPT, Lead Physical Therapist, STHS McAllen Outpatient Rehabilitation Center. “Without them, we’d be immobile and unable to perform simple tasks like walking, lifting or sitting.”
Unfortunately, more than 32 million Americans are living with osteoarthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of the most common causes of poor joint health in the United States. Others include gout and tendon and ligament injuries.
Poor joint health can lead to a variety of complications, including reduced mobility, chronic pain syndromes andjoint deformities.
“Untreated joint conditions can cause structural changes in the joints, which can result in deformities and further functional limitations,” says Salinas. “Prolonged joint pain can lead to the development of chronic pain conditionsthat can greatly impact one’s quality of life.”
Over time, joint limitations and the pain associated with it can significantly impact one’s emotional well-being, leading to mental health disorders.
“Joint pain can impact one’s sleep, concentration, ability to work and relationships with loved ones,” says Salinas. “Not managed correctly, the stress of chronic and persistent pain over a long period of time can lead to feelings of depression, loneliness and anxiety, according to studies.”
To help Rio Grande Valley residents understand the importance of maintaining good joint health, South Texas Health System will dedicate its latest Let’s Talk Your Health webinar to the subject.
Broadcast live on the STHS Facebook Events page on Tuesday, August 19, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., the online seminar will offer important education on the impact of joint health on everyday life. During the webinar, Salinaswill offer important advice on protecting joint health through a combination of exercise, diet and lifestyle choices.
For more information on the webinar, visit the STHS Facebook Events page. To watch previous Let’s Talk Your Health Seminars, visit STHSLetsTalk.com.
| Who: | South Texas Health System |
| What: | FREE virtual seminar entitled “Let’s Talk Your Health – Joint Health” |
| When: | Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. |
| Where: | Online via STHS’ Facebook page |
