Arthritis and Exercise
Myth and Fact
Some people mistakenly believe that osteoarthritis develops because of "wear and tear" or excessive use of a joint during exercise or sports. Although osteoarthritis can be caused by injury, exercise is actually very helpful for people with the disease.
Research on people who participate in strenuous activities has not shown a relationship between exercise and the development of arthritis. To some degree, this is because weight-bearing exercise actually facilitates the development of bone and cartilage. Most physicians agree that patients with osteoarthritis need to continue a program of exercise to maintain optimal function of the affected joints. However, in late stages of osteoarthritis with complete, or almost complete, loss of cartilage (e.g., bone on bone), exercise other than muscle-strengthening for joint support may not be beneficial.
Benefits of Exercise for Osteoarthritis Patients
Exercise for osteoarthritis patients has the following three benefits:
- Maintaining or improving range of motion
- Building strength and support for the joint
- Assisting in weight loss
The Best Exercise for Osteoarthritis Patients
High-impact exercises such as running, jumping, and heavy weightlifting
are not recommended for people with osteoarthritis. However, exercises
with full range of motion such as Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga, stretching,
and water exercises (especially in warm water), can be beneficial
and are generally recommended.
Walking is preferred over running, however, low-load exercise
such as riding a bicycle, using an elliptical trainer or swimming,
are preferred over walking - especially for those with more severe
osteoarthritis. For those with osteoarthritis of the knee, strengthening
the quadriceps (thigh muscles) with isometric exercises, low-weight
resistance training, or light weightlifting is especially beneficial.
|
|
Research Evidence
Many studies have demonstrated the value of exercise for those suffering
from osteoarthritis. In one study, 22 female osteoarthritis patients
participated in an exercise regimen of Tai Chi. After 12 weeks,
patients had 35% less pain, 29% less stiffness, and 29% more ability
to perform daily tasks such as climbing stairs. They also developed
improved abdominal muscles and better balance when compared to women
who did not complete an exercise regimen.
The Challenges of Maintaining an Exercise Program
For osteoarthritis patients, it is often difficult to start or continue an exercise program because it hurts to move the joint. Consequently, many patients cut back on the amount of exercise they get or cease exercising altogether. If you don't have severe osteoarthritis, most physicians believe that pushing through the early pain of a good exercise program can help you achieve significant health benefits. For best results, start your exercise program slowly, increase the activity over time and do something each day. Be sure to discuss your specific exercise program with your physician.
Weight Puts Stress on Joints
The growing obesity problem in the U.S. contributes to the rapid increase in osteoarthritis. Excessive weight causes more stress on joints–there is more impact in running and walking, and potentially more injury with twists and falls. For those who are overweight, a good physician-directed weight-loss program can help improve the success of any osteoarthritis treatment-including the BioniCare Knee Device.
Weight Loss and Exercise
Research has shown that even a modest amount (30 minutes) of low-impact exercise each day can help people lose weight over time.1
1. Slentz CA, Duscha BD, Johnson JL, et al. Effects of the amount of exercise on body weight, body composition, and measures of central obesity: STRIDE-a randomized controlled study. Arch Intern Med. 2004;164:31-39
|
