Welcome to “Exercises for Arthritic Conditions”
Dr. Edward Chan, Chiropractor
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting the joints worldwide.1 In Latin, arthro- means joint and –itis means inflammation, so together arthritis means inflammation of a joint. Two common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While they might sound similar, they have quite different causes and symptoms.
OSTEOARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis is characterized by “wear and tear” of the cartilage on either end of the bone.1 With time, the cartilage may break down causing the two ends of the joints to rub against each other. it is more common in individuals over the age of 65.1 Other factors that can contribute to (or even speed up) the wear and tear of osteoarthritis are obesity, injury, overuse, and genetic factors. Symptoms include morning stiffness, pain that decreases with movement, swelling, and clicking or cracking within the joint itself.
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect the entire body. The body’s own immune system mistakenly identifies normal joints as “abnormal,” resulting in an inflammation that can be extensive and painful. If the inflammation is not controlled, damage to the surrounding cartilage and bone within the joint can occur. It is more common in females around the ages of 30–60 years old.2 Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are similar to those of osteoarthritis, however, a key difference is that pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis generally do not resolve or see may not ease with movement or exercises.
TIPS FOR EXERCISES
Before attempting exercise, consult your health care professional first. For example, exercising for Osteoarthritis typically involves low-impact exercises. Walking can be a great start to get active, ease pain, stiffness and swelling as well as help prevent worsening (longevity!) symptoms.
When athletic facilities re-open, aquatic or pool-based exercise programs are another great form of exercise.
Finally, yoga is another low-impact exercise that helps with mobility, balance and strength.
With all exercises, your safety is a priority so also note these points:
- Warm-up – deep breathing, gentle stretching and joint movement
- Learn the Proper Technique – proper way to stretch and move
- Use the Right Equipment – pay attention to the type of shoes
- Avoid Over-Training – slow, gentle and steady
- Care For Injuries.
Arthritis may be managed well with conservative therapy like specific exercises for the affected areas and self-care as well as manual therapy by your chiropractor.
Let’s take the first steps in becoming the CEO of your health and well-being!
References
- Arthritis facts. Arthritis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/arthritis-statistics-facts.php. Accessed August 29, 2017.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Rheumatoid Arthritis website. Available at: https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/. Accessed August 29, 2017.
- https://chiropractic.on.ca/self-management/exercise-safely/