Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, joint deformity and many other symptoms. Each case is different and for some the symptoms are mild, while for others they are disabling. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach involving exercise, joint protection, medication and, in some cases, surgery. Since extra weight places stress on the joints, a physician may also recommend losing weight. However, this can be difficult for those with rheumatoid arthritis, but there are techniques that can help.
Identification
Normally, the immune system protects against disease by destroying foreign particles in the body that can cause harm. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, for reasons not well understood, the immune system attacks the joints. This can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling and joint destruction. Since there is no cure, treatment is aimed at reducing disability, controlling symptoms and maintaining as much range of motion in the affected joints as possible. Exercise is a large part of the treatment plan, to help keep the body strong and flexible and to help shed any extra pounds.
Benefits
Carrying extra weight raises the risk of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer. Extra weight also places extra pressure on the back and joints, which can contribute to chronic pain. Every pound that is gained translates to added force on the hips, knees, back and ankles. According to the Office of the Surgeon General, for every 2-lb. increase in weight, the risk of developing arthritis is increased by nine to 13 percent. In contrast, losing excess weight can improve arthritis symptoms. For every pound of weight that is lost, 4 lbs. of pressure is taken off the back and leg joints.
Features
Weight loss involves taking in less calories then are burned off. This can be achieved by cutting back on calorie intake or by exercising to burn calories off. Since 1 lb. is equal 3,500 calories, it is necessary to create a daily deficit of 500 to 1,000 calories to lose 1 to 2 lbs. per week. Weight loss is easiest when cutting calories and exercise are used together. To get started, the Arthritis Foundation's "Arthritis Today" magazine suggests weighing and measuring food to relearn what an actual portion size is and avoid eating mindlessly, such as when watching TV. Begin by looking for items that are lower in calories, fat and sugar to replace foods commonly consumed. Even small changes can add up to a lot less calories each day. Stay clear of fad diets or quick weight loss schemes that may rob the body of the nutrition it needs.
Considerations
Exercise can be challenging for those with rheumatoid arthritis due to joint pain and stiffness, especially when trying to exercise hard enough to burn off 500 or more calories per session. Given this, the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center recommends water exercise. Working out in a warm pool can decrease joint pain and reduce the occurrence of muscle spasms, while at the same time increasing strength and endurance. High-intensity exercise, such as water aerobics or water jogging, is the most effective type when it comes to weight loss, and the support of the water can reduce the chances of making arthritis symptoms worse. A 160-lb. person can burn up to 300 calories in an hour-long water aerobics class; heavier individuals will burn even more.
