Before we dive deep into the topic, I just wanted to share a few friendly but honest thoughts. I know how valuable your time is, and I always aim to be efficient. If you’re not ready to learn about treating arthritis with movement and exercises, that’s completely okay. I won’t even know if you decide to close this page, so feel free to do what’s best for you. But if you’re open to it, stay and read on.
Dealing with arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, can be tough, but there are ways to manage it. Osteoarthritis happens when the cushioning cartilage in your joints wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. It’s most common in the knees, hips, and hands.
While there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, there are things you can do to help slow its progression:
Keep a healthy weight: Carrying extra pounds puts more pressure on your joints.
Stay active: Simple exercises can keep your muscles strong and your joints flexible.
Be gentle on your joints: Avoid activities that strain your joints, and consider using assistive devices like canes or braces if you need them.
If you have osteoarthritis in one joint, you’re more likely to develop it in another joint because of factors like genetics and age. But you can take steps to lower the risk, such as following the tips above.
There are a few rare situations where you should avoid exercise to stay safe and healthy. These include times when physical activity could be dangerous, such as when you have severe joint inflammation, fractures that haven’t healed, unstable angina, uncontrolled heart failure, recent heart attack, or deep vein thrombosis. It’s always a good idea to chat with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have arthritis or other health conditions. They can help you figure out the best plan for you.
It might seem counterintuitive to move and exercise when your joints are painful, but sitting on the sofa isn’t the best solution either, right? Being inactive can really impact someone with arthritis in several ways. When you don’t use your muscles, they can weaken and shrink, which can make it harder to support your joints and make you less mobile. Inactivity can also make your joints stiff, which makes it painful and tough to move. Plus, not being active can lead to putting on extra weight, which can stress your joints even more. Over time, inactivity can reduce your range of motion and limit your ability to do things you love. And surprisingly, not moving can actually cause your joints to get inflamed, leading to more pain. Dealing with chronic pain and limited mobility can also bring on feelings of sadness, a loss of independence, and make you feel isolated.
While rest is important for managing arthritis symptoms, it’s crucial to find a balance between rest and activity. Regular, low-impact exercise can help improve joint function, reduce pain, and maintain overall health.
Embracing movement is essential for living a satisfying life with arthritis. Despite what may seem intuitive, consistent, gentle exercise can alleviate pain, enhance joint function, and elevate overall well-being.
Where to Start:
Before starting any new exercise regimen, consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your condition and provide personalized recommendations. Begin with gentle, low-impact exercises and gradually increase the intensity as your body adapts. Pay attention to your body’s signals. If something hurts, stop and rest.
Mindset for Success:
Focus on what you can do, rather than what you can’t. A positive mindset can significantly impact your overall experience. Progress may be slow, but consistency is key. Be patient with yourself and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. This can help you stay motivated.
Effective Exercises for Arthritis:
Resistance exercise: Lifting weights can be helpful for managing arthritis because it strengthens the muscles around your joints, reducing stress on the joints.
Swimming: The gentle resistance of water makes it a great option for people with arthritis.
Walking: This simple yet effective exercise can strengthen muscles and improve joint function.
Cycling: Stationary cycling or cycling on a flat surface can be a low-impact way to exercise.
Yoga/Pilates/Tai Chi: These gentle and controlled movements can help improve range of motion, strengthen your core, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being.
Don’t forget to find activities that bring you joy and meet your specific needs. With perseverance, determination, and a positive attitude, you can lead a fulfilling, pain-free life with arthritis. Remember to work out your whole body, not just the affected joints, to prevent arthritis from developing in other areas. Many individuals have achieved incredible results with my Thrive Collective program or personalized coaching. A well-planned, progressive exercise routine can save you time and help you swiftly and effectively achieve flexibility, mobility, and pain management goals.
Are you struggling to manage other medical condition? Online exercise referral coaching can provide personalized guidance and support to help you improve your overall well-being. Let me help you achieve your health goals from the comfort of your own home.
