Exercise Tips for Arthritis Patients

For the millions of Americans who are struggling with the debilitating effects of arthritis, even the most simple exercise routines can seem all but impossible to complete. However, countless arthritis clinical studies have shown that exercise is in fact quite beneficial for someone who has been diagnosed with this medical condition. So, arthritis patients really can’t let their joint pain stop them from getting some physical fitness in every now and then.

In fact, leading health care experts are saying that there really isn’t anything that beats regular exercise for the long-term management of the joint pain that is caused by arthritis (this is definitely not the craziest thing we are learning about arthritis….). That being said, these specialists are all too aware of the fact that arthritis symptoms can make exercising very difficult for these patients. For this reason, we wanted to share a few tips which could help make your exercise routine a bit more arthritis-friendly.

1) Take It Slow

It is not uncommon for people to skip a proper warm up when they are getting into their workouts, but this is essential for anyone who has sore and stiff joints. So before you start on the treadmill or begin lifting weights, try doing some gentle range-of-motion stretches such as hip lifts, arm circles, and toe touches. Experts also recommend applying a heat pack to the most painful spots of the body prior to beginning your exercise routine, especially for senior arthritis patients. This heat can really do wonders for sore joints and muscles.

2) Keep Pain Under Control

People with arthritis should take the time to ensure that they have their joint pain under control before beginning their physical fitness routine. In some cases, this may actually require going to the doctor to make sure you know exactly what type of arthritis you have (including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), and having access to additional arthritic pain treatments and therapies. Once you take control of your pain, this will allow you to exercise without further exacerbating your condition. Your doctor may also be able to help you pick workout routines that are best for your arthritis.

3) Low-Impact Training is the Way to Go

If you are working out with arthritis, then you will need to incorporate more low-impact exercises into your routine. The specialists recommend things like stationary cycling, swimming, water aerobics, and elliptical machines as ideal low-impact forms of cardiovascular exercise. Other patients may also want to try Tai Chi, as this can help improve balance and range-of-motion in the joints. Clinical studies have also providing strong evidence in support of this ancient Chinese martial art for different forms of arthritis. Also be sure to talk to your doctor before starting a new weight training regimen.

4) Remember to Change Things Up!

Arthritis patients should remember to change up their exercise routine every now and then, as this can be really beneficial for their symptoms. In fact, there are a broad number of benefits that can be gained from mixing things up a bit, not the least of which would be staying interested in exercise. Again, you can discuss this with your primary health care provider, since they can help you form an effective workout plan given your overall health and medical condition.

5) Ditch Exercises That Exert Too Much Strain on Joints

All the experts suggest that you avoid the workouts that can cause additional joint pain, as this is just counterproductive in the long run. In addition, it is important that you exercise within reason. It is good to work up a real sweat during your routine, but you don’t have to continue once your joints have started to really hurt. As you know, pain is one of the best ways that the body can let you know that something needs to stop.

6) Remember to Stretch After Your Workout Too

Stretching after your exercise routine is just as important as stretching before you get started. By taking this time after your done, your muscles will be able to recover from the workout more efficiently. If you are particularly sore in any areas post-workout, then you may want to apply an ice pack to that zone. Please be sure to wrap your ice pack in a thin towel and don’t apply it to the skin for more than 30 minutes at a time.

In the end, exercise is very important for people with arthritis, but there is no easy way to relieve the additional aches and pains in the body. So, be sure to follow these tips and try and eat healthy as often as you can too. Healthy sources of protein and carbohydrates are essential for the muscles if your are getting regular physical fitness. Again, make sure that you discuss your fitness goals with your primary health care provider before you start on a new exercise program for your arthritis.