Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Osteoarthritis #17


Exercise—what types of exercise does the Arthritis Foundation recommend?  Three types of exercise are important to people dealing with OA:  range of motion/flexibility, strengthening and aerobic/endurance. 

Range of motion exercises include stretching gently and moving joints through their range of motion.  Without these range of motion exercises, a person who deals with pain and stiffness from OA may find his ability to move his joints will decrease.  An example of these exercises would be tai chi or yoga for arthritis. 

Strengthening exercises mean strong muscles which can protect joints.  Remember that weak muscles are a risk factors for developing OA; strong, toned muscles help protect a person’s joints. 

Aerobic exercises strengthen a person’s heart and lungs.  These exercises will help a person have more energy and stamina.  Aerobic exercises include walking, swimming, bicycling and other exercises which use the whole body.  Water aerobics (exercising in a pool of water) gives great exercise while being gentle to the joints.  Many people say that water aerobics make their joints feel better. 
Many gyms/senior centers offer a variety of classes for people dealing with arthritis. 

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