Arthritis Exercises: How Can They Heal Your Joints?
Arthritis is essentially a disease of the joints that makes movement difficult and/or painful. It may seem counter-intuitive but doing the right kind of arthritis exercises can actually relieve arthritis pain and aid mobility. Physical therapy is a form of professionally guided exercise tailored to your specific condition and needs.
Fairview’s physical therapists can educate you about your condition and show you the arthritis exercises you are most likely to benefit from. We have the right training equipment customized to your needs and our physical therapists are always there to supervise and help you.
Let’s consider some of the kinds of exercise that can benefit arthritis sufferers.
How Can Arthritis Be Slowed Down With Exercises?
Done right, short periods of the exercises can keep the joints supple and in good working order. Physical exercises strengthen bones and muscles and keep you trim. The key thing is not to overdo it and to try to make regular, steady progress.
Don’t launch into an exercise regime without first consulting your doctor or physical therapist. They can advise you which arthritis exercises are safe and most appropriate for your condition. They can also advise you on important related aspects such as weight control, diet, sleep routines and hydration.
While exercise rarely reverses arthritis, combined with physical therapy and lifestyle changes, it can make a huge difference. It can greatly improve quality of life, independence, mobility, and the amount of pain you feel when moving.
What activity and exercises should be avoided by individuals with arthritis?
Exercises that put an unnecessary strain on, or jolt, arthritic joints should be avoided. Wherever you have arthritis in your body, you need to be aware of how your movements may affect that joint. Listen to your body and only do arthritis exercises which you sense are within your comfort zone.
Low impact exercises such as swimming or cycling make sense for arthritis sufferers. Build up the effort you put into your physical exertions gradually. It’s far better to make slow but steady progress than to suffer a setback by overdoing things. The best type of physical activity is something you enjoy doing that helps build up your overall strength and self-confidence.
How does walking affects arthritis?
For older people with arthritis, walking is a safe way to relieve stiffness in the joints. Walking is a great way of changing your environment and it improves circulation, which helps reduce joint pain.
However, if you have arthritis in your back or hips, talk to a physical therapist first. He or she may advise other arthritis exercises such as yoga, Tai Chi, or light weight-training and aerobic training. Water-based training or individual therapy may be other options.
Fairview Adult Day Care Center in Brooklyn NY has compassionate and friendly physical therapists experienced at helping clients with different types of arthritis. Do call us if you would like to know more about the rehabilitation therapy services and medical care we offer. We are here to help and answer any questions you may have.
This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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