Exercise for Osteoarthritis Relief

When you have osteoarthritis, the cartilage cushioning your joints begins its breakdown for various reasons. You will experience pain, swelling and stiffness in various parts of your body including your feet, knees, hips, elbows, hands, shoulders, neck, and low back.

But when it appears that you should be resting and taking aspirin to ease your painful symptoms, your doctor will actually recommend the opposite. Of course, you should first consult with your Healthpointe doctor at any of the clinics, such as the Ontario, clinic before engaging in any form of exercise in regards to osteoarthritis ; the Ontario clinic is conveniently located for patients from Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Montclair, and Chino. You may have medical conditions that preclude certain forms of exercises.

Exercise provides for the following benefits among osteoarthritis patients:

• Easier movement because of the increased strength and flexibility in the bones and muscles. Walking up the stairs, carrying groceries, and performing other daily life activities become easier.
• Lesser pain and swelling in the affected areas. Endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers, are released during exercise.
• Better blood flow because moving and bending your joints stimulates blood flow to the area. The blood has two functions – first, it brings in the nutrients necessary for stronger bones; and second, it sweeps away the inflammation-causing chemicals.
• Better joint support since your muscles and tendons surrounding your joints become stronger. You will be able to move better, thanks to the stronger joint support.

Studies have shown that people afflicted with osteoarthritis who performed strength and flexibility training at least twice a week were almost 50% less likely to require hip replacement surgery.

Of course, there are also other health benefits that come with exercise. You will lose weight, a benefit that works for your effective osteoarthritis treatment since your joints have lesser weight to carry around. Your entire body especially your heart, lungs, and brains will benefit from the exercise, too.

Getting started can be challenging especially when your joints protest at even the slightest movement. But when you take the first step in engaging in moderate exercise, you will be surprised at the great feelings that you will experience.

Start with at least 150 minutes of brisk walking every week. You can split the time into several segments, such as 30 minutes of walking 5 days a week. You may even start with as little as 10 minutes a day and then build up to 30 minutes.

Come to any of the Healthpointe clinics such as the one at Perris, which is near Nuevo, Sun City, Canyon Lake, Homeland, Romoland, and Lakeview, for more information about exercise in pain management for osteoarthritis.

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Perris, which is conveniently located by Nuevo, Sun City, Canyon Lake, Homeland, and Lakeview. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.