Another positive report on exercise for people with arthritis
We often hear that we should exercise, despite pain – within reason of course. But it’s not always so easy to tell someone who is sore that they should be moving around.
That being said, yet another study, published in the January issue of Arthritis Care & Research has shown the benefits of moving and getting exercise if you have arthritis. The benefits of the right exercise program are in increased fitness – something that tends to be lacking in people with arthritis – more strength, and improved psychosocial status.
The 346-patient study looked at patients who participated in the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program compared with those who did not. The patients, who were on average 70 years old, participated in the 8-week study and reported pain, stiffness, and fatigue. Researchers also looked at how the patients’ strength was affected, as well as the psychosocial aspects.
At the study’s end, the researchers found that the improvement in strength in the group who participated in the exercise program lasted for about 6 months after the study was over.
What was interesting was that those who did have improvements 6 months later, they didn’t believe that they were actually able to complete the exercises.
So, along with the usual recommendation of not starting an exercise program without talking to your doctor, this is yet another argument that you really do need to get up and moving around, even if you are achy and sore.
Tags: arthritis, ExerciseRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Chronic Pain, News, Seniors
1 opinion for Another positive report on exercise for people with arthritis
Ali
Jan 6, 2008 at 11:03 am
This post is so helpful because even though I don’t suffer from arthritis I know that I feel better (ie not achy and sore) when I exercise regularly. I always need a good reminder of that so thanks!
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