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Osteoarthritis: Exercising With Arthritis
Key points
- Exercise may make you feel better, reduce your joint pain, and make it easier for you to do your daily tasks.
- A common symptom of osteoarthritis is pain after activity, which may make you not want to exercise. But you can use heat and cold therapy or take pain medicines to help relieve pain and make it easier for you to exercise and stay active.
- Exercise should be balanced with rest and joint care. If your joints hurt or you have redness or swelling, rest your joints, then try a little exercise. You might also think about using assistive devices, such as splints or braces, for a short time to protect your joints.
- Sharp or unusual pain may be a sign of injury. Talk to your doctor if you have new pain or if your pain is a lot worse.
- Always check with your doctor before you start an exercise program.
What exercises are helpful for a person with osteoarthritis?
Why is it important to exercise when you have osteoarthritis?
How to exercise if you have osteoarthritis
Where can you learn more about exercise and osteoarthritis?
You can find more information in the topic Osteoarthritis.
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| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: April 8, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine David A. Fleckenstein, MPT - Physical Therapy | |
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