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Arthritis:Exercise.

December 7th, 2006


Research has shown that as long as exercise is done properly avoiding injury, the physical exertion can reduce symptoms of arthritis.

Exercise reduces pain and increases the flexibility and range of movement of joints. It is also suggested that exercise reduces the likelihood of deformity and disability.
Exercise improves muscle tone and strength. Exercised muscles are unlikely to go into spasm or develop contractures.

In addition exercise improves the well being of the arthritic patients. Through exercise they can keep their weight stable or may assist in weight loss which is beneficial in arthritis. Exercise also reduces stress and improves mental alertness.

Arthritis patients can feel down or become depressed. Exercise is a positive step to help climb out of this low mental feeling. Whatever exercises you take even if it is just a small daily walk will in time have a significant effect on your well being.

The cartilage of your joints do not have a blood supply and depends on the fluid in the joint for nutrition and oxygen. Regular movement keeps the fluid moving and have a beneficial effect on the cartilage of joints. By having regular exercises you are keeping the fluid in the joints moving. This helps the cartilage.

Most arthritis patients use walking and swimming as their form of regular exercise. Some prefer to exercise in water. Riding a bike or an exercise bike is also popular.

Dr.Phil Hariram
Arthritis Guide.

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    Arthritis: Is winter a problem for your arthritis?

    December 6th, 2006

    Winter poses a few problems for patients with arthritis especially arthritis of the hips and knees. Your driveway, the pavements and the roads are often wet and slippery. Early morning frost or ice on the road is also a problem. There is a risk of slipping and falling.

    In addition the cold weather may increase stiffness and pain. I live in England and although it is not that cold here, it is very damp. Many arthritic patients have increased pain and stiffness and a few who go off to warmer climate such as Spain admits that their pains and stffness are a lot less.

    Although there is no concrete evidence that weather has an impact on the symptoms of arthritis, anecdotal evidence is different.

    Dr.Hollander did a trial to assess the effect of temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure on arthritis. He found that there was more joint pain and stiffness in high humidity and lower pressure. Weather only affects the symptoms. It does not have any affect on the disease itself.

    Elderly arthritic patients who have moved to Florida will tell you that their arthritis feels better. The facts really is that they are having fewer symptoms.

    If you can move to warmer drier climate that is fine. For various reasons not all of us can. I personally prefer to stay where I am. So in winter make sure you are kept warm. You may be inclined to do less in winter. Remember exercise is good for your joints and muscles. Inactivity may increase your pain and stiffness. You do not need to go outdoors to exercise. There are lots of exercises you can do indoors. If you like walking but you are worried about the risk of slipping and falling, get an exercise bike.

    Remember that in winter there is less sunshine and your body will not manufacture enough Vitamin D to keep your bone strong. Make sure your consume foods rich in Vit D or if necessary take a supplement.

    Dr.Phil Hariram,

    Arthritis Guide.

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