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ARTHRITIS EXERCISEArthritis exercise helps people with arthritis in many ways. It reduces joint pain and stiffness and increases flexibility, muscle strength, cardiac fitness, and endurance. It also helps with weight reduction and contributes to an improved sense of well-being. Arthritis exercise is one part of a comprehensive arthritis treatment plan. People with arthritis may be less fit, weaker, and less flexible and have more pain than necessary. Exercise can help to: Reduce joint pain and stiffness Improve flexibility, muscle strength and endurance Help with weight control Contribute to an improved sense of well-being Arthritis exercise which works best for most people is basically of the following types-- • Range-of-motion/flexibility/stretching exercises (e.g., dance) help maintain normal joint movement and relieve stiffness. This type of exercise helps maintain or increase flexibility. • Strengthening/muscle conditioning exercises (e.g., weight training) help keep or increase muscle strength. Strong muscles help support and protect joints affected by arthritis. • Aerobic or endurance exercises (e.g., bicycle riding) improve cardiovascular fitness, help control weight, and improve overall function. Weight control can be important to people who have arthritis because extra weight puts extra pressure on many joints. Some studies show that aerobic exercise can reduce inflammation in some joints. • Cardiovascular exercises. There are many types of arthritis. There may be exercises that are off-limits for people with a particular type of arthritis or when joints are swollen and inflamed. People with arthritis should discuss their arthritis exercise plans with a doctor. The content of your arthritis exercise program should be individualized according to what joints are affected and the severity of your pain. The most successful programs begin with the knowledge and support of people who are experienced with both arthritis and exercise. Whatever arthritis exercise program you decide on you should always consult with your doctor before starting out. Two other types of health professionals that can help you develop an exercise program that fits your specific needs are a physical or occupational therapist. A physical therapist can show you the proper techniques and precautions when performing certain types of arthritis exercise. An occupational therapist can show you how to perform daily activities without putting additional stress on your joints and can provide you with splints or assistive devices that can make working out more comfortable. Not only does a well-rounded exercise program reduce the risk of heart disease and increase mobility, it helps to reduce the psychological and emotional pain that often accompanies the development of any disease or disorder. However at all times you must consult a qualified health care professional, including a doctor, before you start on any kind of arthritis exercise. |
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