14 August, 2013
Arthritis (from Greek arthro-, joint + -itis, inflammation; plural: arthritides)
is a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body. Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in people older than fifty-five years.
There are over 100 different types of arthritis however the two most common forms of the condition are:
Osteoarthritis – is a condition where the cartilage within the joint affected deteriorates. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include may include joint pain, tenderness, stiffness, inflammation, and creaking of joints.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – is a chronic inflammatory disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues in the joints. The trigger for this condition is not yet known. Symptoms of this disease include fatigue, warm joints, joint pain, stiffness, swelling and tenderness of the joints and general aches and pains all over.
While arthritis can be a painful condition, it is important to stay positive and not let the ups and downs restrict your lifestyle. Physical exercise can be one of the best treatments for arthritis as it can help improve flexibility, strengthen the heart, decrease pain, improve mood and wellbeing and promote physical fitness!
The following tips will help you overcome the ups and downs of arthritis:
Know your condition!
– There are over 100 forms of the condition so therefore it is important to know what you are dealing with before you can successfully manage it. Consult your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis so you can then exercise in accordance with your level of ability.
Chin up!
It’s vital to keep a positive attitude when dealing with a condition like arthritis. Exercise is well known for keeping people motivated and promotes a well being and satisfaction.
Keep at it!
Regular physical exercise helps build and maintain strong healthy bones, muscles and joints and can help in controlling joint swelling and pain.
Go all the way!
Exercise should focus on improving the range of motion your joints have or at least preventing further reductions in range of motion.
You’re not alone!
It is important to remember that you have a variety of outlets for aid with your exercise needs. Physiotherapists can provide training in the use of walking aids if required to help maximise your independence. Your trainer is also there to provide you with any assistance they can give you in exercise prescription.
No need to overdo it!
Be aware that there are other forms of exercise than weights and running ona treadmill. Weight bearing exercises can become difficult so seek out althernatives like cycling or swimming as they are not weight bearing.
Know your limits!
If pain is worse than normal for two hours post-exercise, either the exercise was too intense or the duration was too long. Don’t confuse this with general muscle soreness resulting from exercise though!
Stay Strong!
By doing strengthening exercises, this will minimise the losses in strength associated with lack of msucle use.
Watch your flare ups!
Exercise will be limited if you are experiencing a flare up of arthritic symptoms. If this occurs, rest up and stay positive!
It is a good idea to complement your exercise with supplements that can reduce the symptoms of arthritis. Omega 3 oils can reduce inflammation and glucosamine can help with the regeneration of joint cartilage. Speak with your trainer, doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Jon 😉
Jon is a Metabolic Precision Transformation Specialist working from his Studio EPIC WIN PT in Newmarket, Brisbane. Follow all the fun and adventures by liking the Facebook page here