Think exercise is harmful to people with arthritis? In fact, when done properly, regular and moderate exercise can actually help alleviate some of the pain associated with arthritis. Here are some other ways exercise can help older adults with osteoarthritis:
Exercise:
- Keeps joints lubricated
- Reduces joint stiffness
- Builds strong muscle around the joints
- Increases flexibility and endurance
- Reduces inflammation from arthritis and related conditions
- Lowers the risk of other chronic conditions.
Need another reason to start exercising? For every one pound of weight lost, there is a four pound reduction in the load exerted on the knee for each step taken during daily activities; and losing as few as eleven pounds can cut the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis by 50 percent for some people. Exercise also helps promote overall health and fitness by giving you more energy, helping you sleep better, decreasing depression, and increasing self-esteem.
Swimming is particularly suited for people with osteoarthritis because the water’s buoyancy allows for exercise with minimal impact stress to the joints while building strength and increasing range of motion. However, be sure to review any new exercise program with a physician.
Looking for arthritis specific exercise classes? Check out these ideas.
Call Live Free Home Health Care today to schedule in-home care, and to get a partner in care who can assist in implementing an appropriate exercise regimen for someone with arthritis, and ensure a caring person is there when a helping hand is needed.