Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that protects the ends of your bones wears away, causing the bones in the affected joints to rub together. This rubbing can cause pain, swelling and a lack of movement in the affected joint. Treatment for osteoarthritis often includes exercise, because "exercise is thought to be the most effective non-drug treatment for reducing pain and improving movement for people with osteoarthritis," according to Dr. Vert Mooney on the website Spine-Health. Check with your doctor before starting an exercise program to ensure that these activities are right for you.
Aquatic Therapy
Because osteoarthritis often affects the elderly, exercising can sometimes cause too much trauma on the joints to be effective. The buoyancy of water, however, not only provides resistance to movement but can help stabilize your body. You should consider activities such as walking in waist- or chest-deep water, moving your arms and legs under water to help improve joint mobility or even water aerobics to help improve your cardiovascular health.
Tai Chi
Tai chi is designed to help restore or improve strength and flexibility in the elderly without placing unnecessary stresses on your bones and joints. The slow, fluid movements of tai chi make the activity safe enough that the U.S. Arthritis Foundation recommends it as a way to help build strength, improve flexibility and even help with mental clarity.
Yoga
Many forms of yoga are being taught today, from the very challenging to the slower and more meditative forms of the exercise. Yoga can help restore strength and flexibility in patients suffering from osteoarthritis while even helping mental function, according to Spine-Health.com. Talk with the instructor about your osteoarthritis before starting a yoga class to ensure that the movements being performed are appropriate for your condition.
Solo Exercise Activities
You don't need to join a class or be in tremendous physical shape to benefit from exercise. Simple activities such as walking on a treadmill, riding a stationary bicycle or even going for a gentle walk after dinner can help treat your condition. Remember that the goal of exercising with osteoarthritis is to help improve strength and flexibility without placing any unnecessary stress on your joints. Talk to your doctor about activities you're considering pursuing to ensure that they are right for you.
