Arthritis is a painful condition of bony joint (where two or more bones meet) due to Inflammation (Reaction) within it. This inflammation or reaction occurs due to various reasons and causes damage to the joint. If the Inflammation/Reaction persists for long time due to neglect or lack of proper treatment, this damage may become progressive and permanent resulting in Chronic Arthritis.
Some of the commonly affected joints with Arthritis are Spine(Back Bones), Knee, Hip, Shoulder, Wrist and Ankle, in that order
This Chronic Arthritis may remain with you for a long time and possibly for the rest of your life in some cases. However with proper treatment and some modification of life style your symptoms will become minimum and you will be able to continue normal daily activities. Your treatments will probably change over time and medication may be adjusted. A positive mental outlook and the support of family and friends help you live with arthritis and you will be able to continue to perform your normal daily activities. It was thought for many years that if you have arthritis you should not exercise because it would damage your joints. Now, however, research has shown that exercise is an essential tool in managing your arthritis.
Regular, moderate exercise offers a whole host of benefits to people with arthritis. Exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness, builds strong muscle around the joints, and increases flexibility and endurance. It also helps promote overall health and fitness by giving you more energy, helping you sleep better, controlling your weight, decreasing depression, and giving you more self-esteem.
Furthermore, regular exercise also help stave off other health problems such as osteoporosis, heart disease.
Starting an exercise program can seem like a daunting proposition. The important thing to remember is to start slow and make it fun.
It is always good to start with flexibility exercises, which are basically stretching exercises that will improve your range of motion and help you perform daily activities.
Once you feel comfortable with flexibility exercises, you can move on to weight training and endurance exercises such as bicycling.
Sometimes You may be reluctant to do exercise because you are in pain. If this is the case, please consult your doctor. With his advice you may start with a water exercise or swimming program. In the water your body's buoyancy reduces stress on your hips, knees, and spine.
An exercise program can include anything from walking around the block, taking a yoga class, or playing a round of golf.
Because there are many effective and safe ways to minimize pain and loss of motion from arthritis, you need to consult with your doctor and other appropriate health professionals to develop an effective, individualized treatment program. Your specific program will depend on:
• The type of arthritis you have
• How it affects you
• The severity of the disease
• The joints affected.
• Your age, occupation and everyday activities
Your treatment will probably include a combination of:
• Rest and relaxation
• Exercise
• Use of heat and warm water
• Use of cold
• Joint protection
A physiotherapist also can show you the proper techniques and precautions when performing certain types of exercise.
With this communication you have been given all the information you will need on how to start exercising and the proper way to incorporate exercise into the management of your arthritis.
Following Chapter on Exercises will help you to decide appropriate Exercise suitable for you.
Whatever exercise program you decide on you should always consult with your doctor before start it.
