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Arthritis And Exercise



by Gary Pearson

Arthritis can keep people from exercising - when the joints are inflamed, exercises and activities like walking or weight training can become very painful and difficult. These are challenges that can be overcome, though.



Typically, when you are diagnosed with arthritis your healthcare practitioner will provide you with a comprehensive arthritis treatment plan that includes various types of arthritis exercises. This plan will also include any dietary restrictions and inform you of the various types of food known to reduce arthritis pain. Generally, this arthritis treatment plan will also include a list of foods known to aggravate arthritis symptoms such as red meat, dairy products, food additives, and processed foods.

Some of the most popular arthritis exercises include yoga, tai chi, water aerobics, weight training and muscle strengthening, range-of-motion exercises such as dance, and aerobic and endurance exercises such as cycling.

However, it is important not to take matters into your own hands - talk to your doctor and get advice before you start on a new exercise program, or you might end up aggravating your arthritis instead of alleviating it.

Nowadays, most of the major insurance companies provide their members with discounts to health clubs. Some even offer discounts on health products such as exercise videos and dietary supplements. Oftentimes policyholders are not aware of these discounts, so be certain to check with your insurance carrier to see if they offer these types of discounts.

In addition, many health clubs offer up to a 50 percent discount to certain insurance members. The majority of these clubs offer private sessions with a qualified exercise trainer. Many of these trainers are well-versed in helping clients develop an arthritis exercise program suited to their needs. Typically, the cost of a personal trainer is not covered and will be an out-of-pocket expense.

Another option is to look into joining your local YMCA or YWCA. Oftentimes, these organizations offer water aerobics, which has shown to be effective in decreasing arthritis pain. Water aerobics is a very gentle form of exercise and can be performed by nearly everyone. It involves sitting in a shallow pool and conducting gentle resistance exercises.

Application of heat always helps, with different kinds of arthritis. Generally, proper application of heat for anywhere from five to fifteen minutes can give a lot of relief and make sure that joints remain flexible. This is especially important before exercise. Once you have applied heat to your joints, begin with a few stretches. Once you have finished your routine, cold packs will soothe the soreness in your joints. This will also help you reduce inflammation in your joints.

It's important to choose an exercise program that you enjoy and one that does not cause you intense pain. If you dislike the form of exercise or if it causes an increase in pain, chances are you will not stick with the program.


About the Author:
Gary Pearson is an accomplished author.