The Best Exercise Equipment For Arthritic Knees

Your quality of life depends greatly on how you feel. If you suffer from arthritis pain and discomfort that limit your range of motion and prevent you from enjoying activities of daily living, you may be reluctant to try exercising. But you may be doing more harm than good. All forms of arthritis benefit from exercise. A variety of exercise equipment is appropriate. Your unique symptoms will ultimately determine what equipment works best for you as you follow exercise recommendations. Do consult your physician before undertaking any new exercise program.

Considerations

Determine your specific arthritis and exercise needs with your doctor and get moving. Secondary outcomes of arthritis are often chronic diseases caused in part by physical inactivity. So find out what works for you. If walking on a treadmill causes you pain, try an elliptical machine. The biggest determinant of whether exercise equipment is appropriate for you is how you feel during and after. Keep in mind your knees are unique and equipment that works for someone else with arthritis won't necessarily be the best for you. With exercise, you can expect positive improvements in pain, physical function, quality of life and mental health. Include both aerobic and strength-training exercise in your activity program.

Types of Cardiovascular Equipment

Perform cardiovascular exercise three to five days a week in lower impact modes. Examples include walking, water walking, swimming, cycling, in-line skating and rowing. Walk equipment-free outdoors or at the mall, or use a treadmill. A swimming pool maintained between 83 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit specifically caters to users with arthritis and can be your best friend. Water reduces stress to the knees and enhances full range of motion. Upright or recumbent bicycles each remove weight from the joints. Elliptical trainers are comfortable for some and intolerable for others, depending on how your knee tracks as it moves. Whatever you try, start off slowly and for short periods of time.

Types of Strength Training Equipment

Strength train two to three times a week using dumbbells, tubing or bands, ankle weights or the resistance of water. As you progress, you can use ankle weights during straight leg body weight-only lifts during floor exercises, not while standing or walking. Body weight is convenient equipment and useful for exercises such as a squat or bridge. A fitness ball adds variety and progression by adding the challenge of balance. Machine weight leg press is the safest machine option for the knee. Limited range, or end point, motion might be recommended by your physician or therapist. Learn your guidelines from your health professional.

Function

Stretch the muscles in front and back of your knee daily to maintain range of motion. DVDs and exercise classes designed for arthritis can provide instruction on modes of exercise that include nothing else but body weight. Dynamic movement activities such as Tai Chi, yoga and pilates will improve overall flexibility and restore movement to joints. Myofascial release involves breaking down soft-tissue adhesions. Massage is one way to achieve this, and using a foam roller is another. By maintaining joint lubrication and decreasing passive tension in muscles, you'll be more comfortable and therefore motivated to participate in cardiovascular and strength training.

Selection

Choose exercises and exercise equipment that you know you will enjoy. Adherence to a long-term program is important for your success. There are many equipment options available to you. Start slowly, and consult with your doctor before beginning something new. You may also be advised by a physical therapist or an occupational therapist who will assist you in making exercise and daily activities of living easier and less painful. See a certified personal trainer or an advanced health and fitness specialist to help design a fitness program that meets both your physical needs and that you enjoy and fits your schedule.