Although arthritis is a painful degenerative condition, arthritis of the spine does not have to prevent you from being physically active. Studies report that exercise may be the best treatment if you suffer from arthritis. Some exercises may be more beneficial than others, and you should check with your physician before beginning any new program. Start slowly and choose activities that you enjoy so you will stick with it to continue to reap the benefits.
Water Exercises
Water exercises such as swimming, water walking and water aerobics are some of the best exercises for someone with arthritis in the spine. The water reduces stress on the spine, reducing your risk of injury and minimizing discomfort. The resistance of the water will help gently strengthen your muscles and increase your range of motion. Water walking is more beneficial than land walking because the water creates 12 times more resistance than air, while minimizing pressure on the spine. Swimming is a great aerobic workout while still allowing your body to be weightless. Water aerobics is a much better option than land aerobics, which can be very jarring to your spine.
Strength Training
Strength training is a beneficial exercise to alleviate arthritis pain. The results of a study reported in Arthritis Today demonstrate the importance of a strength training program for relieving chronic back pain. Participants who trained four days per week experienced less pain than those who trained fewer days per week. Begin your strength training program using light weights, resistance bands or body weight. You may experience discomfort at first but push through it and you will find it gets easier.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a gentle martial art with therapeutic properties. Through slow movements you will increase your balance, flexibility and range of motion. Participating in Tai Chi can reduce your pain and limitations resulting from arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation offers a modified Tai Chi program that was developed by a physician suffering from arthritis. Tai Chi can also be practiced in the comfort of your home through an instructional DVD.
Yoga
Because yoga takes you through exercises that increase joint flexibility, muscle flexibility and joint range of motion, it is a good exercise option if you suffer from arthritis in the spine. There are many different yoga classes available and you should find one that is designed to be more gentle and easy for beginners. Practicing poses that you can move in and out of, rather than hold statically, may be the most comfortable for you because it can increase lubrication of the joints in your spine.
