Alleviating Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is a medical condition that commonly comes with the aging process. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes inflammation, swelling and stiffening of certain parts of the body causing a lot of pain. There are mild and severe cases of arthritis that would be experienced. Those with this condition are prescribed medicines and balanced diets to lessen pain of their arthritis. Aside from these, exercise is likewise recommended to ease out the pain.

One of the most helpful exercises to alleviate arthritis pain is doing water exercises. This is good especially for those with arthritis on the hip area. It can be some swimming exercises that the patient is comfortable enough to do in the water. An exercise combined with swimming is water walking which also helps relieve pressure on the joints. Since water is buoyant, it can help reduce pressure on the joints while exercising. But, exercise depends on the patient’s comfort zone of doing the exercises. A doctor has to be consulted first before doing the exercise.

Cycling is another good exercise. It is a low-impact exercise that is comfortable for the patient to do. Exercise is done while sitting which reduces pain along the hip area. The exercise is also good for the leg muscles and helps improve the cardio vascular system of the patient. Walking is recommended only for a patient who would be able to do so. The patient is encouraged to walk with an assistance of a cane or a walker which helps in alleviating pain around the hip area. One helpful exercise for arthritis of the hands is to get a rolled up washcloth, hold it like you are squeezing it, then submerge your hands into a basin of warm water. You can also use a clay ball or sponge ball to squeeze with your hands.

There are certain mild exercises which are recommended for those with arthritis. The first part of the exercise regimen would be exercises involving motions or movements. These exercises assure that there is enough motion between the joints. Then there is the strengthening of muscles. These exercises prevent muscle atrophy. Muscle movement is important because the muscles protect the joints. The last kind of exercise would be low-impact aerobics which combines all body parts and improves the cardio vascular system of the patient. A consultation with a chiropractor would be helpful because this specialist can determine which exercises are good for the patient‘s own capacity to perform. It would be good to remember that a patient with arthritis would be allowed to do exercise only up to the point where there is no pain.

People with arthritis should be educated about their medical condition so they would know what to do. It may be good to let the patient know that aside from mild exercises any light physical activity is good to reduce arthritis pain. Regular movement such as stretching, picking up things, washing hands, and walking should be encouraged.

Source: Health Guidance