Arthritis It occurs when the joint wears down due to the aging process, injury, or certain inflammatory diseases like gout and rheumatoid arthritis and the most common arthritis is osteoarthritis which health experts believe almost everyone will get if one lives long. It is a mechanical wear and tear, but also, the heavier or overweight, the faster the joints wear out and some of the symptoms of arthritis are stiffness, joint pain, swelling, tenderness, decreased range of motion, etc., which worsens as we age.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sachin Bhonsle, an orthopedic surgeon at Fortis Hospital in Mulund, shared: “Exercise has been proven to not only reduce the symptoms of arthritis, but also improve function and reduce wear and tear. long-term joints. . It may also eliminate the need for a knee replacement. However, when the arthritic joint is symptomatic, any exercise can aggravate the pain and therefore care should be taken when choosing these physical activities. The exercises that are not hard on the joints are mainly low-impact activities such as yoga, walking, cycling, elliptical trainer, swimming, water walks and group exercises. Whatever exercises you choose, they should be ones you’ll enjoy. That will also improve your happiness level by releasing endorphins.”
Stating that it’s important to start exercising gradually, she explained, “Because it takes time for your body and joints to get used to the exercises. Initially, the discomfort of arthritis may increase, so go slowly. A few minutes a few times a day is good to start with. Increase the exercises in the coming weeks and months. It is important to incorporate variations of different types of exercises. That way, the exercise can target the whole body and not just one part of the body. Yoga and stretching exercises go a long way in improving joint flexibility and making them last a lifetime. Additionally, muscles can be strengthened with light weights, elastic bands, or isometric exercises. Swimming and water walking are a form of resistance exercise and therefore can be done even in severe or terminal arthritis. This is because once we are in the water, we are lighter and weight is no longer an issue as there is no pressure on the joints. Therefore, these physical activities are painless and the joints can get the necessary exercise.”
Dr. Sachin Bhonsle concluded: “In addition to improving bone strength, flexibility, muscle strength, range of motion, and weight control, it also provides an important benefit in improving coordination and balance. This can be further enhanced by doing proprioceptive or balance exercises. No matter how significant your arthritis is, it’s important to start some exercises. Try one for a month. If it is not suitable, try another. don’t give up. Build slowly, add variations. Surely you will manage to reverse the symptoms. The exercises will not only help reverse the progression of your arthritis but will also improve your life, you will sleep much better and be happier. However, make sure you always keep your doctors and physical therapists informed about the activities.”
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