Regular exercise should become part of your lifestyle if you have been diagnosed with arthritis. Below are some of the reasons why exercise can be good for you despite the pain that you may feel when you first start exercising
Weight Reduction
People who are obese or overweight can see a reduction in arthritis symptoms if they engage in exercises that enable them to cut some weight. Exercising helps you to burn calories so that you don't add on weight. Exercising frequently can also help you to shed off some weight. The reduced weight will reduce the pressure exerted upon your painful joints.
Improved Blood Flow
People who have arthritis tend to feel stiff after being immobile for a while, such as after sitting for long. Such people may find it very painful to move again after sitting or lying down. Engaging in exercise can help to increase the amount of blood that is flowing to your affected limbs or joints. That improved flow of blood will make your joints more flexible and you will find it easier to move once again.
Muscle Growth
Engaging in strength training can also help you to rebuild the muscles in the affected limbs, such as your legs. This increased muscle mass can provide additional support to enable you to perform your daily tasks, such as walking your dog or standing as you prepare a meal. The rebuilt muscles can also make you more stable so that you avoid accidents as you move around.
Range of Motion Improvements
One of the biggest benefits of exercise to arthritis patients is that it can help them to stop the reduction in the range of motion that is possible in the affected limbs. For example, it can be challenging to stretch your legs fully as the months go by and your arthritis worsens. Exercise can reduce the rate at which your ability to move deteriorates. Exercise can also help to restore the range of motion that your limbs can perform.
People who have arthritis may have other health conditions, such as high blood pressure. Additionally, many types of arthritis exist, such as rheumatoid arthritis and infectious arthritis. It is better for the specific type of arthritis to be identified by a professional so that appropriate treatment or management measures can be instituted. The professional will also recommend the most helpful exercises that you should engage in so that the symptoms of your condition can reduce.
