Exercise Benefits Arthritis

Countless time here, I have mentioned the importance of exercise in managing arthritis. While exercise (as shown by various studies) can relieve the pain, stiffness and swelling in joints caused by arthritis, we do not want an exercise that will strain the arthritis patient.

If you dig into my archives, the top 2 exercise for arthritis that will come out are:

1. Tai Chi

Tai Chi is most known to relieve stress and improve one’s agility. Recently however, it has been noticed as a beneficial exercise form for people with arthritis. From the Mayo Clinic‘s list of uses of tai chi, one cannot deny the fact that it can indeed help against arthritis:

• Reduce stress
• Increase flexibility
• Improve muscle strength and definition
• Increase energy, stamina and agility
• Increase feelings of well-being

In the case of oseoarthritis, stress is a risk factor. Therefore tai chi in one way to relieve stress and improve one’s quality of life.

2. Water Aerobics or other water exercises

Exercising in water doesn’t strain the joints and so it offers a different way of exercising with too much stress to people suffering from arthritis. Besides, studies have attested to its benefits. It is better though to have a trainor for this or join a class. With the approval of course of your doctor.

From wikipedia:

In addition to the standard benefits of any exercise, the use of water in water aerobics supports the body and reduces the risk of muscle or joint injury. The mitigation of gravity by flotation places less stress on the joints when stretching, and can allow a greater range of motion. The mitigation of gravity makes water aerobics safe for any individual able to keep their head out of water, including the elderly.[2] Exercise in water can also prevent overheating through continuous cooling of the body. Most classes last for 45-55 minutes.

I couldn’t agree more. People with arthritis should exercise but with minimal to none injury to the muscle or joints.

Swimming and walking, am not to sure to add to this list. While it may be beneficial, it should with done with caution as we do not want to be strained, stress nor injured. Simple stretching exercises could be helpful as well. Nothing too fancy, I guess. It would be best to discuss with your doctor, it might be good to consider as well if you work with a professional therapist or trainor experienced in arthritis patients. At least from my reading about managing life with arthritis, that piece of info I has always bumped into.

Would you mind sharing to us here, what kinds of exercises have you found beneficial in living life with arthritis? We’d like to know.