Stronger Together: Caring for Your Bones and Joints During Bone and Joint Week

At Crestcare Malmesbury Hospital, we believe that true wellness means more than simply treating illness when it arises—it means empowering our community with the knowledge and tools to live healthier, stronger lives. With Bone and Joint Week upon us, it is the perfect time to focus on the foundation of our mobility and independence: our bones and joints.

Bones and joints may not always get the same attention as the heart, lungs, or other organs, but without them, everyday activities—from walking to working to playing with our children—wouldn’t be possible. As we live longer and lead more active lives, looking after our musculoskeletal health is more important than ever.

Why Bone and Joint Health Matters

Worldwide, musculoskeletal conditions are one of the leading causes of disability and loss of productivity. From back pain to arthritis, osteoporosis to fractures, millions of people live with conditions that affect their bones, muscles, and joints every day.

Here in the Swartland, where farming, sport, and active lifestyles are part of our DNA, bone and joint health touches almost every family. Whether it’s a teenager injured on the sports field, a parent living with arthritis, or a grandparent worried about a fall, musculoskeletal conditions affect all ages.

The good news? Many of these conditions can be prevented, delayed, or better managed with the right lifestyle choices, early detection, and expert care.

Common Bone and Joint Concerns

1. Arthritis

Arthritis is an umbrella term for conditions that cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Osteoarthritis—the “wear and tear” form—is the most common, especially in older adults, but inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis also affect many people.

2. Osteoporosis

Known as the “silent thief,” osteoporosis weakens bones, making them fragile and more prone to fractures. Women after menopause are particularly at risk, but men are affected too.

3. Sports and Activity-Related Injuries

From ligament tears to stress fractures, active individuals—especially young athletes—are no strangers to bone and joint injuries. Proper conditioning, safe training, and early treatment are key.

4. Back and Neck Pain

Musculoskeletal back and neck pain are among the most common reasons for missed workdays. While often linked to posture or overuse, underlying spine problems may need medical attention.

5. Fractures and Falls

As we age, the risk of falls and fractures increases, particularly when osteoporosis is present. Preventing falls is as important as treating broken bones.

Building Stronger Bones and Joints: Everyday Tips

Nutrition: Fuel for Strength

• Calcium-rich foods: Dairy, leafy greens, almonds, and fortified foods help maintain bone strength.

• Vitamin D: Sunlight, fatty fish, and supplements (if needed) aid calcium absorption.

• Protein: Essential for bone and muscle repair.

• Limit excess salt, alcohol, and sugary drinks: These can reduce bone density over time.

Exercise: Movement Is Medicine

• Weight-bearing exercises (walking, running, dancing) strengthen bones.

• Strength training builds muscle to support joints.

• Flexibility and balance exercises (like yoga or tai chi) reduce fall risks.

Lifestyle: Protect What You’ve Got

• Quit smoking: Smoking accelerates bone loss.

• Limit alcohol: Excess weakens bones and increases fall risk.

• Protect joints: Avoid repetitive strain and maintain a healthy weight to ease pressure on knees, hips, and back.

When to See a Specialist

While self-care is powerful, some symptoms should never be ignored. See a doctor if you experience:

• Persistent joint pain or stiffness

• Swelling, redness, or warmth in joints

• Frequent fractures or concerns about bone weakness

• Difficulty walking, bending, or using your hands

• Severe or sudden back pain

Early diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference—whether that means slowing the progression of arthritis, preventing fractures in osteoporosis, or surgically repairing an injury.

How Crestcare Malmesbury Supports Bone and Joint Health

Profile photo of Dr Jon Cornelissen, orthopaedic surgeon at Crestcare Malmesbury.

At Crestcare Malmesbury, we are proud to serve the Swartland with a growing range of specialist services in orthopaedics, general surgery, and related disciplines. Our focus is not only on treating conditions but also on preventing them and improving quality of life.

Here’s how we support patients with bone and joint concerns:

• Orthopaedic Surgery: From joint replacements to fracture repairs, our specialists offer advanced surgical options close to home.

• Pain Management: We provide procedures and medical therapies to help patients live with less pain and more mobility.

• Rehabilitation Support: Working alongside allied healthcare professionals, we ensure patients recover with strength and confidence after injury or surgery.

• Community Education: Through CPD evenings, public talks, and awareness campaigns like Bone and Joint Week, we bring knowledge directly to the community.

Looking Ahead: A Healthier, Stronger Community

Crestcare Malmesbury is continuously expanding its services to meet the needs of our community. We know that bone and joint health is not just about treating disease—it’s about keeping people active, independent, and able to enjoy life with their families.

That is why we are committed to:

• Growing our team of specialists in orthopaedics, pain management, and rehabilitation.

• Partnering with local general practitioners to ensure seamless patient referrals and care.

• Investing in facilities and technology that make world-class treatment accessible right here in the Swartland.

A Call to Action This Bone and Joint Week

Bone and Joint Week is more than a date on the calendar—it’s an opportunity for each of us to reflect on how we’re caring for our bodies. Small steps today can mean fewer problems tomorrow.

• If you haven’t had a bone health check - book one.

• If you’ve been ignoring joint pain—get it assessed.

• If you’re worried about a parent or loved one at risk of falls—start the conversation.

• If you’re an athlete or active individual—take injury prevention seriously.

Your bones and joints carry you through life. Take the time to care for them.

Final Word

At Crestcare Malmesbury, we walk this journey with you. We are more than a hospital—we are part of the Swartland community, committed to delivering care with compassion, expertise, and heart.

This Bone and Joint Week, let’s celebrate the gift of movement, strength, and independence. Together, we can build a healthier community—one step, one joint, one strong bone at a time.