Muscles, bones, joints and slipped discs is the theme of a series of free public lectures starting this week by Bristol University anatomists Dr Mike Adams and Dr Trish Dolan. 

At the first talk [October 23], Ageing gracefully: muscles, they will talk about how muscles move you around and where tendons and ligaments fit in. 

Ageing gracefully: bones on October 30 will explain that bones let you stand tall but bone quantity and quality decreases with age.  Hormonal changes make it worse for women and exercise does most good when you are young.

On November 19, Ageing gracefully: joints will reveal how ‘synovial’ joints let you move easily.  Articular cartilage is the body’s own Teflon.  Joints deteriorate with age, but age is not a ‘disease’, although osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are diseases.

Finally, on November 27, Doctors Adams and Dolan will look at what does what in the spine and where back pain comes from with Ageing gracefully: spine and back pain.  What is ‘good’ posture and does it matter?

The interactive talks, organised by the University’s Public Programmes Office, take place in Waddelow Hall, Broadmead Baptist Church, Union Street, Bristol (entrance between Tassa Jara and Tesco Metro) from 1 to 2 pm.

No pre-booking is necessary and members of the audience are welcome to bring their sandwiches.