Water Aerobics And Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting up to 20 million Americans, according to the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine. It is a degenerative disease that causes the protective covering of the bones of the joints, or cartilage, to disintegrate. Contact can occur between the surfaces of the bones of the joints, leading to pain, but research has shown that water aerobics can lessen the pain and might be recommended as part of a treatment plan.

Research

A study published in "Arthritis Today" looked at 800 patients with osteoarthritis from six clinical trials. The study compared patients who took part in regular water aerobics with patients who took part in exercises on land, both for approximately three months. The symptoms of the patients who did water aerobics improved, their overall pain was reduced and function improved. The researchers concluded that water aerobics might be considered as the first part of a long-term exercise program for osteoarthritis patients.

Benefits

Exercising in warm water is beneficial for people with arthritis, according to the University of Washington Department of Orthopedics. If you have osteoarthritis, your natural inclination might be to keep the joint very still to avoid pain, but gentle exercise in warm water can help to keep the joint mobile and flexible. The water supports your joints and provides resistance to help to build muscle strength, according to the university. Regular exercise improves muscle strength, which in turn supports weak joints affected by osteoarthritis. This might boost your self esteem, helping you to perform your daily tasks with more confidence and less pain.

Types

There are many types of exercise that your physical therapist might teach you. Water aerobics exercises are similar to many exercises done on land, but you have the added support of the water. For example, you might start with a set of stretches, for example, knee to chest raises underwater. Specially adapted weights might be used underwater to increase bicep strength. You also might wade through the water slowly or jog under the water to increase muscle strength and endurance.

Environment and Considerations

Water aerobics is often conducted in warm water swimming pools. Temperatures between 83 and 88 degrees F are thought to be comfortable and optimal for therapeutic water aerobics, according to MayoClinic.com. Water aerobics might be prescribed as a part of your treatment plan if you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Always consult your physician or other qualified practitioner before attempting water aerobics or any other form of exercise for your osteoarthritis symptoms.