Athletes like Nolan Ryan and
Robert Parish are as uncommon in
professional sports as an old carpenter
is in construction. Due to the
rigors of the trade, framers over 40
years old are especially rare. But as
any carpenter knows after a hard
day's work, all construction is hard
on muscles, bones, and joints. Eventually
the work catches up to you,
and you either move into the office
or apply for a job at the lumberyard.
Or is there another alternative?
Recent medical advances offer
today's builders a way to strengthen
muscles, and reduce the frequency
and severity of work-related
injuries. This article reviews advice
from medical experts on ways to
prevent debilitating muscle, bone,
and joint injuries, and looks