Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers: How Exercise helps treat Arthritis

Easing the pain caused by arthritis is a difficult task. But have you ever thought that about exercise? Normally when people think of exercise, they don’t think of pain relief; in fact, they think the opposite! But exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis.

It’s important to talk to your doctor and find out what exercises are best for you. This will all depend on the arthritis you have and what joints are involved. Working with a doctor and/or a physical therapist is the best way to develop an exercise plan that will help treat your arthritis without aggravating pain elsewhere.

Exercise helps with arthritis by increasing the strength and flexibility of the joints being affected by arthritis. By making these parts of the body stronger, it lessens the withering effects of arthritis. Letting these parts of your body atrophy from inaction will only increase the pain and stiffness from arthritis. For most people with arthritis, exercising is probably the last thing on their minds. The good news is you don’t have to run a marathon or lift 800 pounds to see the benefits – even a moderate amount of exercise will yield results. You don’t have to be an athlete, you just have to move!

Also, know that not just exercise, but any kind of movement can help alleviate pain. Mowing the lawn, walking the dog, and gentler physical activities such as yoga and tai chi can help, as well. Many of these physical exercises can also help improve your balance, making a fall less likely.

Exercise combined with a good pain treatment plan can help you take back control of your life. Call Dr. Christensen at Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers today to schedule an appointment (405-751-0011).