Exercises for Arthritis
Exercise is important for healthy joints. Moving your joints daily helps keep them fully mobile. Strengthening the surrounding muscles helps support the joints. Also, joint movements transports nutrients and waste products to and from the cartilage , the material which protects and cushions the ends of the bones.
Do a little gentle exercise in the evenings. We know you’ll probably think you can’t be bothered, but it will help you to be a little less stiff the following morning. Even whilst you’re watching the TV you should adjust your sitting position every few minutes, stretch and bend your legs, move your hand position and tilt your head from side to side. Don’t overdo it though, just a little and often so as not to overuse a particular joint and make it more painful.
Arthritis and Exercise
When you have arthritis it can be very painful to move around so the natural reaction is to stop moving – WRONG – Movement really can help to decrease the amount of pain, strengthen the muscles and increase your endurance. It is important for you to not give up and continue fighting with the pain. If you have been suffering from persistent chronic pain, it is advised that you consult a doctor immediately. Delaying treatment can cause further damage and affect your body adversely.
Arthritis Exercise Do’s
- Focus your exercises on stretching, increasing your range of motion and gradually building strength
- Take part in low impact exercise, swimming and water exercises, walking, cycling, it’ll all help to control your weight and improve your mood
- Choose activities which build muscles around your joints without damaging the joints themselves.
Arthritis Exercise Don’ts
- Jumping
- Running
- Tennis
- High impact aerobics
You are not supposed to stress your joints further. Please note that the creams and the sprays can only give you momentary relief. If the pain is due to a ligament tear or any other complex injury, it is recommended that you consult a specialist- orthopaedician or a sports injury specialist.
