The Importance of Exercise When You Have Arthritis

Exercise should be part of everyone’s life, but for people with arthritis, it’s even more important to keep your body moving. Many residents of Lanham, Maryland, rely on Kadie E. Leach, MD, for expert guidance on living with arthritis, including how to design an exercise program that is both effective and safe. 

Today, let’s explore the ways that exercise can help you manage your arthritis, and how to get started with a plan that’s right for you. 

Joints are designed to move

Joints allow your body to move, from making small adjustments in how you sit or stand to running a marathon. While there are a variety of different types of joints throughout your body, they are all designed to keep you moving. 

Arthritis comes in more than 100 different forms. Most are characterized by inflammation within a joint, along with stiffness and pain. For many people with arthritis, the thought of forcing a painful joint to move is the last thing they want to do. 

But without movement, an arthritic joint can become even more stiff and sore. Movement increases blood flow to the area, which in turn reduces inflammation while nourishing the tissues within and around the affected joint. 

Exercise improves range-of-motion and flexibility

Not only can exercise boost your strength, it can also help arthritic joints gain greater range-of-motion. Gently mobilizing your joints keeps them moving freely. You don’t have to spend a great deal of time performing these exercises; once you learn some basic techniques, you can incorporate these simple movements into your daily routines. 

Stretching is also a great way to stay flexible and reduce joint pain. But avoid overstretching, as it can lead to injury. The best way to get started is by working with a physical therapist to develop a customized plan that aligns with your needs and goals. 

Exercise can reduce your risk of falls and other accidents

When you challenge yourself to improve your strength, flexibility, and balance, you lower the risk of everyday accidents that are so common among people with arthritis. Aching, stiff joints increase your chances of stumbling, tripping, and falling. 

Many people develop arthritis in their later years, when falls and other accidents threaten their independence. Simple exercises can help you remain agile, nimble, and light on your feet, even with arthritis. 

Don’t undervalue the psychological benefits of exercise

While exercise can help manage joint pain and keep joints moving properly, one of the most often-overlooked benefits of physical exercise is what it can do for your mental health. Exercise can lift feelings of depression and help you feel more energized. 

When you find an activity you truly love, exercise becomes even more rewarding. That might look like an afternoon of pickleball with friends, but it could just as easily be a long solitary walk. Think about the types of exercise you’ve enjoyed in the past, but also consider trying something new to find new favorites. 

Wondering how to get started with an arthritis exercise plan?

If you’re considering increasing your physical activity levels, you don’t have to go it alone. Many resources can help you design an exercise program that fits your health, arthritis symptoms, and lifestyle. 

When you partner with Kadie E. Leach, MD, for personalized arthritis care, you can expect professional guidance and advice on how to incorporate more movement into your everyday life. Schedule an appointment online or by phone.