Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise

Should people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis exercise? Because it is painful sometimes even to move many people with rheumatoid arthritis believe they can't exercise. However, there are many different forms of exercise and many different ways to accomplish the goals of exercise.

Exercise benefits rheumatoid arthritis patients in many ways. Strengthening the muscles builds a support system for the joints which relieves the joint and lessens pain. This strengthening of the muscles also holds the joint properly and helps prevent joint damage when the synovium (lining in a joint) is swollen.

Exercise benefits rheumatoid arthritis sufferers because it helps to maintain a proper weight which also relieves stress on the joints. Excess weight can build up easily in RA patients due to prolonged immobility or the side effects of medications.

Exercise benefits all people because it aids sleep, increases energy levels, maintains a healthy heart, decreases depression and fatigue, and helps maintain self-esteem. People with rheumatoid arthritis suffer from depression and fatigue and self-esteem problems even more than most.

So how do you determine what exercise is best for you? First, you should always check with your physician before beginning any new exercise program. Your doctor will be able to point you to physical therapists or others trained to help with your particular kind and level of rheumatoid arthritis.

Secondly, think for yourself. You know what causes you pain. While you should expect some discomfort or even pain as you begin a new regimen of exercise, the pain shouldn't last more than an hour or so after finishing the exercise. If you are experiencing a flare in a particular joint adjust your exercise so that you won't damage the joint while it is swollen.

Consider various forms of exercise. If you have been immobile for a while or even walking hurts. Start with isometric exercises to strengthen your muscles without using your joints. As you build strength you can add weight-bearing exercises using light dumbbells or elastic bands. Start with a few repetitions and build up gradually as your strength builds.

Swimming and resistance exercises in water are great ways to build muscle strength while sparing the joints. As you are able begin weight bearing exercises so that you will build bone strength as well. Osteoporosis is common to people with rheumatoid arthritis due largely to side effects from the medications. Even jogging is good for the bones if your lower body joints are not swollen or already damaged. If jogging isn't an option look for a cushioned treadmill or even better an elliptical trainer (or cross trainer). This machine offers more weight bearing exercise than a bicycle because you stand as you exercise, but it uses a pedaling motion which is low impact.

Bicycling is a fun exercise that is relatively safe if your knees can handle it. You can view more scenery than just walking along and can "coast" to rest when you need a break.

Be sure to check with your doctor first and then find an exercise that is fun! It will be easier to keep at it if you are enjoying what you are doing. Find a friend to exercise with you or buy a stationary bike or machine you can use at home while you watch television. But work those muscles and see how much better you will feel!