Improve your arthritis with exercise

Kenneth Gardner

PHYSICAL EXERCISE is recommended for individuals who have arthritis to help preserve muscle strength and joint mobility. Exercise will also improve their functional capabilities, relieve pain and stiffness. Exercising prevents further deformities, improve their overall physical conditioning and re-establish neuromuscular co-ordination, and mobilise stiff or contracted joints.

Exercise prescription needs to be developed on the basis of the functional status of the individual. Based on the stage of the problem, some persons can perform most activities that the typical healthy individual can. Weight-bearing activities such as cycling, warm water exercises and walking can be managed comfortably by others.

Exercise should be avoided during an acute arthritic flare. Arthritic individuals often report fatigue and some discomfort as common complaints following exercise. Exercise programmes need to balance the levels of immobilisation of affected joints and exercise to reduce the severity of the inflammatory joint disease.

Research has confirmed that many persons with arthritis can safely participate in appropriate regular exercise programmes and achieve better aerobic fitness. Low-impact exercises such as swimming and water aerobics can be well tolerated by persons with arthritis. Improved strength, endurance, flexibility, and better ability to walk or perform daily tasks are all benefits of exercise. A comprehensive exercise programme for persons with arthritis include flexibility, strengthening and aerobic activities. The content and progression of the programme depend on individual needs and capabilities.

Persons with long-standing or severe arthritis, or multiple joint ailments, should undertake exercise in collaboration with trained personnel. A successful exercise programme can be worked out with the support of a rheumatologist who is experienced with both arthritis and exercise.