Exercise can help relieve arthritis pain in joints

Erin Carter, Michigan State University Extension -

There are many benefits of exercising when you have arthritic joints.

 It’s difficult for most of the U.S. population to exercise regularly and if you throw in joint pain it becomes even more difficult for people to exercise. Finding the motivation to exercise seems overwhelming and daunting when joint pain is constant. This is often the reality for people suffering from arthritis or arthritis type of pain in their joints. It’s hard to believe moving more is beneficial for swollen and sore joints but it is.

It is important to continue to be mobile and regularly move joints whether it be in a pool or by taking a walk. Any movement that improves circulation, flexibility, and helps control weight is beneficial for joints. Many people feel if they aren’t running a marathon or aren’t swimming in the Olympics they will not get any benefits.

Mayo clinic published an article highlighting the benefits of exercising when you have arthritic joints. These benefits are:

  • Strengthens the muscles around your joints
  • Helps maintain bone strength
  • Gives more energy throughout the day
  • Promotes a good night’s sleep
  • Helps control weight
  • Enhances quality of life
  • Improves balance

Pain can be limiting and can be a sign of overuse when training for an athletic event, and this can often signal that it is time to cut back or change your training style. On the other hand, giving up on exercise when arthritic or experiencing joint pain can be detrimental to reducing the pain in joints. It’s important to find a way to be motivated to move more and get regular exercise in during the day.

The first move before beginning any exercise program is a discussion with your doctor. Michigan State University Extension has many programs to help the public with their overall health and wellness goals. Experts from Michigan State University Extension make it possible to teach healthy lifestyle changes for the long haul. 

Michigan State University Extension has many programs to help individuals with living a healthy lifestyle long term. Experts from Michigan State University Extension make it possible to keep communities motivated to live the type of lifestyle most strive.

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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