| Exercise is very beneficial for sufferers of arthritis. It | | | | 1. Range of motion exercises - These refer to the |
| can lead to weight loss and also strengthens muscles, | | | | way joints move naturally on a daily basis. |
| which reduces stress on joints. Exercise also helps | | | | 2. Strengthening exercises - These include isometric |
| relieve stiffness in joints, increases flexibility, and keeps | | | | exercises, or tightening the muscles without moving the |
| bone and cartilage tissue strong and healthy. | | | | joints, and isotonic, muscle movements that include |
| Most doctors recommend physical activity for their | | | | moving the joints. |
| arthritis patients, but it is always a good idea to check | | | | 3. Endurance exercises - These increase stamina, and |
| with your doctor first before starting any specific | | | | include bike riding, walking and water exercising. They |
| exercise program. | | | | will also help you lose weight, sleep better and improve |
| The best forms of exercise for arthritis sufferers | | | | your peace of mind and thought processes. The |
| include walking, dancing, such as low impact aerobics, | | | | greatest benefit comes when you have 20 minutes or |
| yoga and swimming. Thirty minutes of exercise a day | | | | more of steady movement, but it is best to gradually |
| is optimum, with a warm up in the beginning, using mild | | | | work up to that amount. |
| stretching. Start out slowly and gently, and build up | | | | If your joints hurt after exercising, relax and put ice on |
| over time. You do not want to over stress your joints | | | | the area. Consider over-the-counter anti-inflammatory |
| all at once. | | | | drugs, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to ease the |
| Which of these forms of exercise you choose should | | | | pain and pressure from swelling. |
| depend on where your arthritis is located, and how bad | | | | Find the best exercises for you. You could rotate the |
| it is. If your knees are in extreme pain, for example, low | | | | three different types of exercise above to get the |
| impact aerobics may not be a good choice. Swimming | | | | benefits of all three. Try to make it interesting and fun, |
| may make more sense in that case. A combination of | | | | walking or bike riding in different areas, for example. |
| forms of exercise is best. | | | | Establish a routine that fits your life, and you will have |
| When you exercise, be sure to breathe properly. | | | | the best chance of sticking with it. Soon you will find |
| Oxygenation is important, because it promotes a | | | | you are not feeling as much pain from your arthritis, |
| healthy heart rate, reduces fatigue and increases | | | | and you will be enjoying life more. |
| circulation, all of which are essential in battling arthritis. | | | | Find out what else you can do to relieve the pain of |
| There are three main types of exercises: | | | | arthritis. |