ARTICLE - Don't let arthritis put the kibosh on all exercise

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Don't Let Arthritis Put The Kibosh On All Exercise (It Hurts More When You Stop)

Medical News Today

Article Date: 31 Dec 2009 - 1:00 PST

Achy knees and joints caused by arthritis are not reasons to stop exercising.

Regular, modest exercise improves joint stability and strengthens

muscles, according to the December issue of Mayo Clinic Women's

HealthSource. Exercise also improves mood, sleep, energy levels and

day-to-day functioning. Best of all, people with arthritis who

exercise regularly report less pain.

When a person avoids exercise, joints become less mobile and the

surrounding muscles shrink, causing increased fatigue and pain.

A physical therapist or personal trainer can tailor exercise programs

to health conditions and fitness levels. The key is to choose safe,

appropriate activities and to take it slowly at first. A variety of

activities can be safe and helpful for people with arthritis,

including:

-- Range-of-motion and flexibility exercises: Activities such as yoga

and tai chi increase joint mobility. Doing range-of-motion exercises

in the evening can reduce joint stiffness the next morning.

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Read the full article here:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/174917.php

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