Is it Safe to Exercise with Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis occurs as joints begin to age and develop signs of wear and tear. Arthritic joints often feel stiff the the morning, sometimes swell, and often ache after using them.
A common myth surrounding osteoarthritis is that it is unsafe to exercise arthritic joints for fear that joint use will speed up the degenerative process. This fear causes people to rest, avoid exercise, and often leads to weight gain and muscle loss.
In reality, we find the opposite to be true. Regular physical activity and exercise SLOWS joint degeneration and PROTECTS arthritic joints from further damage. Proper exercise preserves joint function and can limit or prevent the need for medication use, injections, and surgeries.
At MOMENTUM Physical Therapy in Okotoks, we work with arthritis daily. Our physiotherapists are trained to identify arthritic joints, provide hands on treatments, and give you the exercises and tools that you need to preserve and maintain your joints.
If you have arthritis, or any other joint injury, call MOMENTUM Physical Therapy in Okotoks today to find out how we can help keep you moving for years to come. 1-403-982-5600.
Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.