For many people with chronic pain,
exercise can be very beneficial. Physical
activity can help you manage the
symptoms of other chronic conditions. In
the case of arthritis, proper exercise can
help you better maintain joint mobility.
The key is knowing which exercises are
helpful to your condition and which are
harmful. If you have arthritis:
-Try water exercises. The buoyancy of
water takes the weight off your joints.
You can swim laps on your own or
you might try a water aerobics class.
-Use a stationary or recumbent
bicycle, which takes pressure off
your knees.
-Consider joining a basic yoga or tai
chi class to increase strength and
flexibility in your joints.
-See a physical therapist who can
offer recommendations on the best
type of exercises for you and teach
you how to do them properly to avoid
injury and further pain.