Rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of your joints and leads to swelling, pain and even bone erosion and joint deformities. Because this condition also causes fatigue, exercise may seem an impossible endeavor when your symptoms are at their worst. Despite the obstacles, however, those who manage to move every day find that rheumatoid arthritis becomes more manageable.
Role of Exercise
Most rheumatoid arthritis sufferers require life-long treatments to manage their symptoms. Medications, such as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, are sometimes helpful. In severe cases, prescription drugs are necessary. However, both prescription and over-the-counter drugs can cause serious issues for long-term users, including stomach ulcers, heart problems and bleeding risks. As such, it is important for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers to combine exercise and other lifestyle changes with their medicines. Exercise helps increase joint flexibility for better range of motion, promotes well-being and increases strength and endurance. Some people find that if they exercise regularly they need fewer medications. Additionally, exercise may help delay joint destruction for those who begin a regimen in the early stages of the disease.
Exercise Risks
Exercise can seem impossible when joints are aching and inflamed. It is important to move your joints everyday, however, because people who are less active tend to lose their ability to move about freely. Muscles surrounding the joints become weaker and contractures -- the tightening of muscles, tendons and joints -- develop from lack of movement. The key is balancing movements with rest. People who overdo it often experience more pain and swelling following exercise sessions. If that happens, MayoClinic.com recommends taking a hot shower or bath, or alternating cold and hot treatments. Apply cold packs to affected joints to numb the pain and reduce spasms, but do not use cold packs on already numb joints. Heating pads help relax away the pain and promote circulation. Don't use cold packs or heating pads for no longer than 15 minutes at a time.
Precautions
Avoid exercising when your joints feel tender or severely inflamed. When you are up to the task, start with gentle warm-ups and ease into your exercise routine. Stop if you feel new joint pain. Pain that lasts more than 2 hours preceding exercise typically is a sign of an injury. If pain persists for more than a few days, contact your doctor.
Considerations
If you have rheumatoid arthritis and are concerned about damaging your joints with exercise, talk to your doctor. Consider working with a physical therapist who can help you develop a safe and effective routine.
