We know exercise may be the last thing you want to do when your joints are sore. But, getting a small amount of careful exercise can actually help your arthritis pain. Immobility causes the joints to stiffen, which only increases discomfort. Working your joints every day, will decrease your pain and improve your health.
Benefits of exercise for arthritis sufferers
Daily exercise can help maintain your mobility and ease your arthritis pain. Exercise can help benefit your body by:
- Building strength in your muscles and bones, taking the strain off of your joints.
- Giving you more energy by day and making it easier for you to sleep at night.
- Helping to control your weight, which also relieves joint strain.
- Improving your sense of balance and your overall sense of well-being.
Always ask your doctor first before starting a new exercise program. At Beeson Wellness Center, we can create a safe, sensible exercise plan so you can manage your arthritis.
Best exercises for arthritis sufferers
According to the Mayo Clinic, you can use heat before your workout to relax joints and ease stiffness. Applying ice after your workout can also prevent swelling. Your exercise program should avoid exercises that jar your joints. Especially if you're having a flare-up of swelling or pain. Choose exercises that:
- Improve range of motion. Such as shoulder rolls, arm stretches, and gentle reaching exercises.
- Strengthen your muscles. Such as light weight training that focuses on multiple reps instead of adding weight.
- Increase stamina. Such as aerobic exercises like swimming or cycling on a stationary bike.
- Enhance body awareness and balance. Such as tai chi, yoga, or light Pilates. These exercises can also increase flexibility. Which can help combat fatigue and reduce joint pain.
Protecting arthritic joints
If you’ve been inactive for a while, you’ll want to ease into your workout routine. Keep sessions short and don’t overdo it. You may have slight soreness, but don’t ignore severe pain. According to the CDC, you should check back with your doctor if your arthritis pain:
- Is sharp, stabbing, and constant.
- Causes you to limp or be unable to grasp and hold items.
- Lasts longer than two hours after exercise, or worsens at night, preventing sleep.
- Doesn't get better with rest, hot or cold packs, or medication.
- Is accompanied by swelling, heat, or redness in your joints.
If you’re seeking ways to manage arthritis pain naturally, contact Beeson Wellness Center. You can call our office at 971-247-1063 or schedule an appointment online.
