If you think you can't exercise with arthritis, think again! For many years it was believed that exercise and arthritis were mutually exclusive and that exercise would cause more damage to the joints. Fortunately, recent research has discovered that exercise is beneficial for those who suffer from arthritis and it is now recognized as an essential part of a good management plan for the condition. You CAN exercise with arthritis if you do it sensibly and find the right program to manage your symptoms.
The Benefits of Exercise
Regular, moderate exercise has several benefits for the arthritis sufferer. It reduces the degree of joint pain and stiffness and builds good muscle tone around the affected joints. At the same time exercise increases flexibility and endurance levels.
Of course it’s not only the joints that benefit, overall health is improved too and the result is increased energy levels, better sleep patterns and weight control. Exercise may help prevent or control osteoporosis and heart disease too.
If you choose to exercise with arthritis it will increase confidence, give you a sense of accomplishment and stave off the depression and anxiety that sometimes accompanies getting older.
Your exercise program could be anything from a yoga class to a walk around the block or a daily swim - the only thing you need to remember is to choose a low-impact form of exercise and to start off slowly.
How to Exercise with Arthritis - Getting Started
* If you are in daily pain an exercise program may seem ridiculous or even impossible but if you start slowly and find a form of exercise you enjoy, in time you will start to look forward to your daily workout.
* Begin with exercises to improve your flexibility. These are stretching exercises that improve the body’s range of motion and make daily activities easier.
* When you feel fairly comfortable with your level of flexibility you can consider weight training and exercises that increase your endurance like cycling. Exercise with arthritis doesn't have to be boring!
* Water exercises (see below) can be a good choice if you have severe pain. The buoyancy of the water will reduce stress on your hips, knees and spine.
* Consult a doctor before you begin for advice on any exercises that must be avoided. You may also want to talk to a physical or occupational therapist. He or she will guide you in the correct way to perform the exercise to minimize the risks of injury and additional strain.
They will also be able to provide you with splints or other devices designed to make working out more comfortable.
Two great options for exercise with arthritis are yoga and water exercise and these are covered next.
