7 Exercises to Manage Arthritis Pain
Arthritis is a painful ailment that affects the joints and causes an inability to perform even mundane tasks. People with this joint condition can benefit from various exercises for managing arthritis pain and other symptoms. Here’s a list of a few exercises to help manage arthritis pain:
- Walking
This is a no-budget workout that requires no equipment and can be done anywhere. One can start walking in their backyard and take rounds around the block once they get comfortable. That being said, one should wear proper shoes that are comfortable and always carry a water bottle to stay hydrated. - Stretching
Stretching may sound painful, but one should do it if they can manage it without being in too much pain. It improves flexibility and reduces stiffness in the joints. It’s recommended to make stretching a habit and do it first thing in the morning for the best results. - Water exercises
Exercises like swimming are gentle on the joints, as the weight is supported by the water when exercising in water. These exercises will make a person use their joints without putting too much strain on them. This helps improve the range of motion, and these exercises for managing arthritis pain can be performed with the help of a guided instructor. - Strength training
If the muscles have strength, one will automatically have strong joints. People suffering from arthritis should indulge in a workout session that includes strength training, but one should ensure that the exercises they choose are convenient for them. Just like any workout, it’s best to start slow and gradually increase the intensity once a person gets comfortable with the exercise. - Cycling
Cycling is a better form of exercising than jogging as a smooth cycle will not jolt the joints and cause pain. However, people with arthritis in the hands may find it difficult to cycle. For others, cycling is an effective way to treat arthritis pain. - Yoga
Arthritis doesn’t just mean joint pain. It can sometimes lead to loss of balance and shaky coordination, and it increases the risk of falls significantly. To prevent falls and other symptoms, one can start doing balance exercises like undertaking yoga poses. Yoga improves the body’s balance and coordination, and it also increases the flexibility in joints. - Pilates
This is a popular workout among people with arthritis as it is low-impact, easy, and fun. Pilates strengthens and stabilizes the joints and the surrounding muscles. Those who are new to Pilates should start with exercises that don’t require the use of heavy machinery. Instead, they can work out on the mat.
Although exercising may seem difficult at first, consistently doing these exercises for managing arthritis pain can lead to significant improvement in joint functioning and improve the range of motion in the affected joint.