Pilates and yoga have become popular additions to many people's fitness plans and may be especially beneficial for those diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid Arthritis, also called RA, is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic joint inflammation on both sides of the body. Common joints affected include the wrists, hands, ankles and feet, resulting in stiffness, joint pain and limited flexibility. Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers can benefit from yoga and Pilates in several important ways.
Basics
Participating in low-impact exercises like yoga and Pilates can improve your mood, joint function and quality of life and perhaps delay the onset of disability. Yoga involves gentle movements called poses that are performed on a yoga mat. Pilates comprises a variety of poses you hold through concentration and contraction of the core trunk muscles. Studies performed by the American College of Sports Medicine have established the promising effects of both yoga and Pilates. Study results showed an improvement in flexibility, quality of life, relief from symptoms of menopause and a reduction in back pain for the participants. Both forms of alternative treatment encourage a mind-body connection as a part of their teachings.
Yoga and RA
Controlled yoga poses help RA patients by strengthening the muscles and other connective tissues that surround the joints, increasing range of motion and flexibility of these connective tissues. Yoga may also benefit RA patients by combating the stress and inflammation people diagnosed with RA face every day. A study done by Ohio State University found that study participants who practiced yoga regularly had lower levels of inflammation following stressful situations compared to non-yoga-practicing participants. Although more research is needed to determine the effects of yoga on inflammation, yoga is beneficial for patients with rheumatoid arthritis to increase flexibility, improve balance and strengthen joint-supporting tissues.
Pilates and RA
Pilates enthusiasts enjoy the mind-body connection that is the foundation of Pilates, while holding specific positions for a certain amount of time to strengthen the core muscles along the trunk of the body. Pilates helps participants improve their balance and posture while in a state of meditation to reduce stress. Pilates offers many fitness options for people with RA, even those who are restricted by joint deformities. RA patients can perform movements while sitting in a chair, then progress to more advanced movements and positions. Pilates is especially beneficial for arthritis patients suffering from neck and back pain because the movements of Pilates strengthen the core muscles that help support the spine.
Contraindications
Yoga and Pilates exercises are beneficial for many people, but only your physician knows what kinds of exercises are appropriate for your condition. For example, your physician may not want you to do certain exercises during periods of active inflammation or after joint replacements and joint surgeries, which often require the supervision of an orthopedic doctor or physical therapist. Many people with rheumatic disease can benefit from yoga and Pilates, but you should always check with your physician before beginning any exercise regimen.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- CDC: Physical Activity and Arthritis
- American College of Sports Medicine: Pilates and Yoga Provide Welcome Benefits
- Spine Universe: Mind and Body Treatments for Back Pain: Meditation, Yoga and Pilates
- The Ohio State University: Yoga Reduces Cytokine Levels Known to Promote Inflammation
