If you have arthritis, it may be tempting to believe that less is more when it comes to exercise. However, a lack of physical activity may cause your joints more harm than good.
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“Exercise has been proven to have many benefits for people with arthritis,” says Mary Benedict, DPT, physical therapist and orthopedic clinic manager with Beaufort Memorial. “Low-impact exercise that increases blood flow and strengthens the muscles around the joints may help to reduce stiffness and joint pain.”
How Exercise Eases Arthritis Pain
Exercise can help you lose weight, which can be especially helpful if you have osteoarthritis in your knee. Losing even 10% of your body weight can help reduce that knee pain by half.
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The American College of Rheumatology also notes that regular exercise can help people with arthritis improve their sleep quality, energy levels and overall functioning.
Are you ready to get started? Here are some tips to safely put a spring back in your step.
- Hit the pool. “If you have difficulty exercising due to pain, the pool is a great place to start,” Benedict says. “Begin with low-impact water walking and work up to water aerobics or swimming laps.”
- Pick a workout partner. Exercising with another person may be more enjoyable and help you stay motivated.
- Stick with the basics. Walking or biking can be great exercises for people with arthritis, especially as the weather gets warmer. Just be sure to wear supportive, activity-appropriate athletic shoes while performing these exercises.
- Stay hydrated. Water will help lubricate your joints.
- Talk with a physical therapist. “A licensed physical therapist can help you customize a workout program to protect your joints,” Benedict says. In South Carolina, you can access physical therapy services for 30 days before needing a referral from your primary care provider or orthopedic specialist.
Is joint pain keeping you from doing the activities you enjoy? Sign up for a free Solving Hip and Knee Pain seminar to learn about what you can do to ease your pain.