Exercise is one good form of Arthritis Pain Relief. One in three Americans suffer from a form of arthritis or chronic joint pain. Without cure or therapies the pain and discomfort can lead to functional loss and disability. However, there are ways to manage the pain. One of these ways that is cost-effective and can be performed by everyone is Arthritis exercises.

The amount and the form that an arthritis exercise schedule will take depends on the joints that are engrossed in the arthritis, the quantity of pain and inflammation, the x-ray changes, how stable the joints are and whether or not there has been a joint replacement.

Before starting an arthritis exercise schedule you must consult your physician who can help you determine what exercises will be beneficial to your joint health and which may inadvertently cause more harm. A skilled physician or physical therapist can tailor make a schedule to fit the needs of the specific person.

Studies show that individuals with chronic joint pain are assisted by an arthritis exercise program. The programs appear to reduce the joint pain, stiffness and increase the flexibility, strength and endurance. They also help patients with weight reduction and a enhanced sense of well being. Weight reduction is important to patients with chronic joint pain and loss of mobility since the more weight the joint must support and cushion the more damage is done to the joint.

Although arthritis exercise is a important piece it is just one part of a comprehensive rehabilitative plan for people with arthritis. The plan also includes rest, relaxation, good nutrition, medications and use of the joints correctly to conserve energy and decrease functional loss of mobility.

There are three specific kinds of exercise that are appropriate in an arthritis exercise schedule. Range of motion exercises are exercise in which the joint is moved through the range it already has to maintain it or move toward more flexibility. Strengthening, such as weight training, will keep or boost muscle strength that supports the joints that are affected. And aerobics or endurance exercises will enhance cardiovascular fitness, maintain weight, and improve overall function. Today most health clubs and community centers offer programs for people with limited mobility.

When you begin a program talk about your plans with the doctor, discuss with a physical therapist or qualified trainer. There are several methods that can help to decrease the initial pain of beginning an arthritis exercise program. For example you may apply heat to sore joints or begin the exercise with heat applied to the joints to increase circulation and warm the joints. You should stretch and warm up with array of motion exercises. Always begin exercises slowly but especially with strength training use low weights and short aerobic exercises.

Exercises should be done at specific intervals. This means that a range of motion exercises can be done day to day and should be done at least every other day to improve and Retain your range. Strengthening exercises should be done every other day or three times per week to take full advantage of the muscle build up without overtaxing muscles and joints. Endurance exercises can be done for 20 -30 minutes three times a week unless you have sever pain/swelling in your joints.

When you exercise if you experience pain that lasts more than 1 hour it is too strenuous. If you experience persistent fatigue, increased weakness, decreased range of motion, continued pain or increased joint swelling – stop and consult your physician.

Arthritis exercise regimes are an integral part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program for individuals who suffer from arthritis and chronic joint pain. Using this method will decrease your pain and increase flexibility and mobility. Exercise can contribute to an arthritis remedy, and can certainly go a long way in providing arthritis pain relief.