Arthritis exercise programming
Putting togther an exercise programme for arthritis can be really beneficial to assisting with preserving and increasing strength & movement.
Benefits of exercise programming.
Putting together effective arthritis exercise programming can help patients to control their symptoms better. Research indicates that those who exercise regularly report reduced symptoms of physical disability, improved physical performance and reduced pain.
The goal for any type of arthritis exercise programming should be threefold:
- To preserve or restore range of motion and flexibility around the affected joints
- To increase muscle strength and endurance to better support the joints
- To increase overall physical conditioning
Interestingly, when researchers compared aerobic exercise and resistance exercise (strength training) for their effects upon patients with osteoarthritis they found that both types of exercise were associated with significant improvements.
Whichever type of exercise you undertake, certain precautions should be adhered to as patients with arthritis often have lower levels of fitness due to pain, stiffness or biomechanical abnormalities.
Ensure that patients always:
- Warm up thoroughly
- Begin slowly and progress gradually attempting to progress too rapidly can result in increased pain, inflammation and damage to the joint.
- Avoid rapid or repetitive movements of affected joints these joints may be unstable or restricted due to pain, stiffness, swelling, bone changes or fibrosis.
In summary.
Given these cautionary notes, it is not surprising that water based activities are popular, particularly for those who are very deconditioned, though with time and patience, a wide range of activities can eventually be attempted.
