Did you know staying active is one of the most effective ways to manage arthritis pain? While it may seem counterintuitive to move when your joints ache, organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize the importance of physical activity as a core component of arthritis management.1 Here's how exercise can help and what types of activities are best for arthritis relief.
How Exercise Eases Arthritis Pain
Exercise helps in multiple ways:
- Improves Joint Mobility: Moving your joints keeps them flexible and prevents stiffness, a common symptom of arthritis.
- Strengthens Surrounding Muscles: Stronger muscles provide better support for your joints, reducing the strain on them.
- Reduces Inflammation: Physical activity promotes the release of anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body, helping to decrease swelling.
- Boosts Mood: Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which can elevate your mood and improve your overall sense of well-being.
Best Types of Exercise for Arthritis
If you have arthritis, not all exercises are beneficial. Low-impact activities are ideal as they minimize stress on your joints while offering significant benefits:
- Stretching and Flexibility Exercises: Practices like yoga or tai chi improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.2
- Strength Training: Building muscle strength around affected joints can help with stability and pain management. Focus on exercises with resistance bands or light weights.
- Aerobic Activities: Walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent options for boosting cardiovascular health without overloading your joints.
- Water-Based Exercises: Aquatic therapy or water aerobics reduce the impact on joints while allowing for a full range of motion.
Safe and Effective Exercise
Before starting any exercise program, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional to ensure your chosen activities are safe for your specific condition. Dr. Buchalter, an orthopedic specialist, can help you design a program that supports your joint health without worsening your arthritis symptoms.
Exercise is just one part of a comprehensive arthritis management plan. Dr. Buchalter specializes in tailored solutions for hip and knee arthritis including advanced knee and hip replacement surgery, ensuring optimal care for every patient. Book an appointment to learn about the various treatments best suited for your condition.
AUTHOR: David N. Buchalter, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive hip and knee replacement surgery at South Palm Orthopedics. Dr. Buchalter uses the latest cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques for orthopedic patients across South Florida.
Reference: