Arthritis Lifestyle Tips
People suffering from arthritis can have a safe and enjoyable physical activity program. It is important to maintain a normal weight to reduce burden on your joints. Weight loss can also reduce the intensity of symptoms.
The most crucial factor is that people suffering from arthritis must find the exercise or activity that is suitable for their condition. For instance, this means that they may need to start by walking 5 minutes every second day. Remember that more physical activity will improve the patient’s condition. However, it may take some time until the desired level of physical activity is reached. A good approach is to try to increase the intensity of physical activity each week. Usually this takes more than a month.
It is important to modify the type of physical activity so that it is suitable for their condition. For instance, they should reduce the days or the time they go walking, and preferably go swimming or do cycling instead. Keep in mind that physical activity might need to be stopped in case of a flare of arthritis symptoms, or at least to be reduced to the point that symptoms do not get worse. When symptoms go away it is advisable to return gradually to the previous levels of physical activity in order to have a better chance to stay healthy.
There are people with arthritis that run marathons. If you have not found which type of exercise might be beneficial for you, a good idea is to choose a physical activity friendly to your joints, such as cycling, swimming, dancing or a mixture of such activities.
If you think that a special program at a gym for people who suffer from arthritis is easier for you and offers you safety try this. It is often helpful to share experiences with other patients. On the other hand, if you prefer exercising on your own, for instance walking in your neighborhood, choose a route with reduced chances of tripping or stumbling etc.
In any case it is very useful to consult a specialist (i.e. health care practitioner, physician, general practitioner, orthopedic, physiotherapist) about your physical activity program.