Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, swelling, tenderness and stiffness in your joints. It is generally characterized by inflammation in your joints that breaks down the connective tissue between your joints. When this happens in your spine, it can lead to decreased motion in your spine. This decreased motion , coupled with the pain caused by the condition, can result in the inability to move or carry out your daily tasks. Treatment for this condition varies widely from person to person, depending on the severity of the condition.
Pain Control
Depending on your specific condition, your doctor may prescribe pain medications like NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or narcotics, coupled with bed rest, ultrasound or ice and heat to control your pain. This protocol is often specific to your condition, and can vary widely. The goal is to lessen your pain so other treatments can begin.
Aquatic Exercise
If your spinal arthritis has left you essentially bedridden, or unable to move freely, for a while you may not be in the shape to get out and exercise in the gym. One effective treatment involves exercising while partially submerged in a swimming pool. This protocol involves using the buoyancy of the water to ease some of the strain on your spine by your body weight. This will allow you to perform movements that may be too painful on dry land. The exercises and movements prescribed for you will be tailored to your specific condition.
Range of Motion
You may be prescribed an exercise regimen to help restore flexibility to your spine. These exercises are designed to help you regain your mobility while helping you to become more comfortable with moving with spinal arthritis. You may be bending your spine forward and backward but the exercises can also involve lifting your legs to help stretch your spine. The specific exercises often depend on the location of your arthritis and your overall level of health.
Weight Training
You may have an exercise program designed to strengthen your core muscles. Weight training with arthritis can involve using light weights to add a little resistance to your body weight while performing motions designed to strengthen the specific muscles involved with your condition. These exercises help build strong muscles while at the same time promoting your overall health. As with any rehab protocol, you will get a list of exercises tailored for you.
