If you have arthritis, the stiffness, pain or fatigue can make it difficult to get moving. However, the benefits of exercise are abundant for those suffering from this disease. Endorphins that are released during and after exercise may reduce pain. The mobility, flexibility and stability that you gain from exercise may reduce your symptoms.
We know it can be difficult to get started but here are some tips to help you through the transition.
1. Keep impact at a minimum. Start with activities such as walking, swimming and stationary bicycle.
2. Know your body. Nobody but you knows what hurts and what doesn’t. Exercise is not one size fits all. Be sure to gravitate to activities that work for you.
3. Start slow. Regular exercise is more important than intensity of exercise. Dedicating three days a week will help you to see results more quickly than starting and stopping because of pain.
For more information, you can check in with our professionals at Emergency One. With nearly 60% if adults under the age of 65 diagnosed with arthritis, there is a good chance that either you or someone you know has arthritis. However, the good news is, according to a study in Arthritis Research & Therapy, just ten minutes of exercise per day may cut the risk of developing arthritis symptoms by 28%.