The bad news first: Almost 25 percent of adults suffer from arthritis in the United States. Exercise has been shown to slow or delay arthritis symptoms. Many people avoid exercise because of its pain and don’t benefit from the health advantages it offers.
But here’s some good news: You can exercise comfortably and safely.
Our pain specialists at the Florida Pain Management Institute in Delray Beach and Boynton Beach, Florida, are experts in helping those with arthritis to exercise. This blog explains what arthritis is and how to get moving again.
Exercise and Arthritis
Arthritis doesn’t refer to a single disease. This umbrella term encompasses over 100 conditions that cause joint stiffness and pain.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It’s caused by the wear and tear on cartilage and joints. Rheumatoid Arthritis is another fairly common form of arthritis, caused by an overactive immune response that attacks healthy tissues, such as joint cartilage. Some types of arthritis can also be caused by infections.
Unfortunately, arthritis sufferers often experience pain and stiffness while moving their joints. While a sedentary lifestyle can offer temporary relief for those with arthritis, it can also lead to stiffer joints and weight gain.
As we’ll explain further below, you can get your body moving once again.
Exercise for Arthritis: Tips and Tricks
The following tips can help you exercise more comfortably if you suffer from arthritis:
- Stretch First
Stretching is an excellent way to warm up your muscles and joints before starting any exercise, no matter how mild. For example, lie down and bring your knees to your chest, holding them there for one minute. Stretch your hips and legs by standing up and reaching toward your toes.
- Opt for Low-Impact Activities
Running, jogging, and jumping rope are high-impact exercises that can cause joint pain. Instead, try low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling.
Swimming can reduce the risk of injury by allowing your joints to be suspended in water. Cycling provides support for your weight while you pedal.
You can also strengthen your legs using an elliptical machine, which will prevent your feet from hitting the ground.
- Give Yoga a Try
Yoga offers many benefits for arthritis sufferers. It helps stretch your muscles, strengthen your core, and calms your nervous system by focusing on your breath. There are classes available for all levels of yoga practitioners, from beginners to advanced. Some classes have specific goals, such as increasing strength or improving flexibility and range of motion.
Other movement classes, such as tai chi and pilates, are also available either in person or online. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a list of recommended activities and exercise groups to help people with arthritis become active again.
- Seek Medical Attention
Exercise can help reduce arthritis pain and control it, but you might need assistance to get comfortable enough to exercise. We can help you with this.
– Facet joint injections
– Sacroiliac joint injections
– Joint injections in the peripheral joints
– Viscosupplementation
– Medications
If you suffer from arthritis and need help getting moving again, we’re here to assist you. Contact us to learn more or schedule an appointment with the Florida Pain Management Institute.
This article was written by a medical professional at Florida Medical Pain Management. Florida Medical Pain Management is proud to offer comprehensive pain management services to a diverse group of patients. Patients at Florida Medical Pain Management can get help managing hip, knee, leg, and neck pain. The practice also offers comprehensive arthritis management, along with treatments for auto accidents, sports, and work injuries.
