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Arthritis can make it very difficult for many people to get the exercise they need, but fortunately there are arthritis low impact exercises that can help you stay in shape and possibly even help with your joint or knee pain. If you have arthritis or suspect you may have arthritis, it’s best to talk with your doctor in order to get a full understanding of the condition and what options are available to treat it. There are many homeopathic remedies available, but naturally these are not guaranteed or scientifically proven. Many people have seen some improvement in their arthritis simply by following a special arthritis diet and doing exercises which help increase flexibility and strength.
Because arthritis for many people causes a lot of pain and swelling in their joints, especially knees and ankles, many would think that exercise is impossible. While jogging or dance aerobics is probably out of the question at first, that does not mean you cannot get in shape or exercise.
Low Impact Exercises are exactly what they sound like: they are exercises that don’t put a lot of stress on your body or joints. You can still get the benefit of a full workout – without any additional pain. In our article with exercises to strengthen bad knees we listed one of the best low impact exercises to consider if arthritis is a problem: swimming.
Swimming has many health benefits for everyone, but it is especially helpful for those who have joint conditions or concerns for several reasons. In many areas there are hydrotherapy pools and programs specifically designed to help those with arthritis. These pools are usually temperature controlled, since warmer water is more beneficial for those with arthritis problems. Hydrotherapy and swimming exercises can be very beneficial because the water gives support and takes the weight off of your joints. You may have noticed that people and objects seem lighter when in water. While the weight is the same, the buoancy from the water makes swimming and other water activities excellent low impact exercises for arthritis.
There are many exercises one can do in water that they may not be able to do comfortably out of the swimming pool. For those who find it difficult to walk for any long period of time or distance, walking in a swimming pool is much easier and comfortable. Other exercises done under water can help strengthen and tone muscles. Many people think they need to be champion swimmers to see the benefits of swimming, however you do not even need to know how to swim, since most exercises can be done in shallow water and floating devices can be used.
If you have arthritis, speaking to your doctor about hydrotherapy and other exercise alternatives can help you manage your arthritis pain as well as help keep you healthy and in shape. There are additional exercises that may be of benefit beyond swimming and hydrotherapy that your doctor or a physical therapist may be able to recommend. Exercising and getting in shape does not have to be a painful experience!
Have any recommendations for arthritis low impact exercises? Share them in the comments below.
