By Mr Jacob Ranjith Kumar D, Physiotherapist, Vellore
Will physical activity reduce or increase your arthritis pain?
Arthritis is a leading cause of pain and limited mobility worldwide. There’s plenty of advice on managing arthritis and similar conditions with exercise, medicines and stress management. But how do you know what’s best for you? Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you figure it out.
Basics
- Learn all you can about your condition, including the type of arthritis you have and any existing joint damage.
- Involve your healthcare professional, friends and family in your pain management plan.
- Tell your healthcare professional of any changes in your pain.
Everyday Routines
Keep your joints flexible – Do gentle daily stretches to move your joints through their full range of motion.
Maintain good posture – A physical therapist can teach you proper ways to sit, stand and move.
Know your limits – Balance activity and rest, and don’t overdo.
Manage your weight, quit smoking, exercise.
What to Do
Select activities that strengthen the muscles around your joints without causing harm. A physical or occupational therapist can help you create an exercise program that’s right for you. Focus on stretching, range-of-motion exercises and gradual strength training. Include low-impact aerobic activities, such as walking, cycling and water exercises, to improve your mood and help control your weight.
What to Avoid
Avoid activities that involve high impact and repetitive motion, such as running, jumping, tennis, high-impact aerobic exercises, and repeating the same movement such as a tennis serve.
