Arthritis is a relatively common condition that affects almost 50 million American adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 2 million adults are affected by a form of arthritis known as rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joints, resulting in pain, range of motion problems and deformity. If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, certain exercises, such as Pilates and yoga, may help to reduce pain and pressure in your joints and increase your overall flexibility and strength.
Stress and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Stress management is an important part of managing rheumatoid arthritis. Stress can increase inflammation and pain, making your condition worse, according to Spine Universe. To compound matters, you may experience increased stress because of your condition. According to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, holistic forms of exercise, such as yoga or Pilates, are beneficial ways of fitting in exercise while connecting your mind and body. Aside from their many physical benefits, both yoga and Pilates provide the opportunity to release pent up frustration, relax and unwind.
Pilates for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Pilates is a form of gentle exercise that focuses on the connection between your mind and body while gently stretching and strengthening your body. Pilates helps to re-educate your body by training your muscles to move correctly. According to the Sports Injury Clinic, this can be an appropriate method of exercise for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, because you don't have to struggle to keep up with others or push yourself beyond your limits. Pilates promotes an improved range of motion due to its focus on improved flexibility in tight joints, gentle stretching and increased muscle strength. It is suitable for people of all levels of physical ability and flexibility.
Yoga for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Yoga is another useful way for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis to get enough exercise and relief from stress. According to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, beginner yoga classes are suitable and beneficial for most patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Beginner classes focus on easy poses that don't initially require a lot of strength or flexibility. More challenging poses may be contraindicated, especially poses that involve a lot of twisting or balancing.
Warning
If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, seek the advice of your doctor or physical therapist before beginning a yoga or Pilates exercise program. Certain exercise may be contraindicated for your specific condition. Additionally, certain hospitals and medical clinics offer yoga and Pilates programs tailored to people suffering from arthritis. You should not attempt to learn the exercises by yourself at home, especially in the beginning phases. It is crucial to learn the proper alignment and technique in Pilates and yoga in order to prevent injury.
