How to Exercise with Arthritis



Exercising with arthritis can be a challenge, but it is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Arthritis can cause pain and stiffness in your joints, which can make exercising difficult. However, regular exercise helps to reduce inflammation and improve joint health. Here are some tips on how to exercise with arthritis:

1. Choose low-impact exercises: Low-impact exercises such as swimming, biking, and walking are great options for people with arthritis. These activities put less strain on your joints than high-impact activities like running or jumping.

2. Start slow: When beginning an exercise routine, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity over time. This will help your body adjust to the physical demands of exercise without causing too much discomfort or pain.

3. Use heat or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold before and after exercising may help reduce joint pain associated with arthritis. You can use a heating pad or take a warm bath before exercising to loosen up your joints and muscles, then apply ice packs afterwards to reduce inflammation and swelling in the area you worked out in.

4. Focus on range of motion exercises: Range of motion exercises are designed to improve flexibility in the affected joints by gently stretching them in all directions while avoiding painful movements that could further aggravate them. Examples include shoulder stretches, arm circles, leg lifts etc., which should all be done slowly and carefully so as not to cause any further damage or discomfort in your joints while still reaping their benefits over time!

5. Listen to your body: It’s important to listen to what your body is telling you when you’re exercising with arthritis; if something hurts too much or doesn't feel right then stop immediately! Don't push yourself beyond what is comfortable for you; instead find ways that work best for managing any pain you experience during physical activity so that it doesn't become unbearable over time!

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Arthritis, Exercising, Low-Impact, Start Slow, Heat/Cold Therapy, Range of Motion Exercises, Listen to Body,

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