The Healing Power of Movement for Men with Joint Pain and Arthritis
Are you tired of treating the aches and discomfort of joint pain and arthritis with medications and looking to incorporate a more natural approach? Consider getting up and moving more.
Movement is a powerful remedy for the discomfort of joint pain and arthritis. The familiar feeling of stiff, achy, and swollen joints that often accompany arthritis can quickly discourage physical activity. However, standing up from a chair, climbing stairs, or even taking a stroll can bring immediate relief. It’s natural to think that movement might worsen these symptoms, but the truth is quite the opposite.
Regular exercise – A way to manage arthritis
One of the most effective strategies for managing arthritis is to engage in regular exercise. One need not aspire to run marathons or emulate Olympic swimmers; instead, exercising within individual limits and fitness levels can significantly alleviate pain and stiffness. Despite the formidable pain that arthritis can inflict, avoiding exercise out of fear of aggravating it may inadvertently worsen the condition.
Abstaining from physical activity may prevent individuals with arthritis from maintaining optimal heart, brain, and muscle function.
For those grappling with arthritis, the advantages of staying physically active are manifold:
- Enhanced muscle strength
- Improved endurance
- Enhanced balance
- Expanded range of motion in affected joints
- Diminished risk of injury
- Increased flexibility
When it comes to choosing the right exercise, walking is often a popular choice. It’s easy, requires minimal equipment, and can be done almost anywhere. However, if you have arthritis in your hips or knees, you might find swimming or cycling more comfortable. Water-based exercises, in particular, have been shown to improve strength, balance, and pain relief for those with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis.
Simple yet effective practices like yoga or Pilates can promote muscle flexibility, facilitate joint nourishment, and alleviate pain simultaneously. Collaborating with a physical therapist or physician to tailor an exercise regimen to individual needs is an excellent way to initiate a physical activity program that addresses arthritis-related challenges.
Commencing an exercise routine can be daunting, particularly when arthritis symptoms—pain, stiffness, and fatigue—loom large as barriers to increased activity. However, these very symptoms often improve with consistent exercise. Starting gradually, with short walks, aquatic exercises, or stationary cycling allows individuals to acclimate to physical activity and progressively extend their exercise duration.
Consulting with a healthcare provider prior to embarking on an exercise program is paramount. Physicians and physical therapists can offer personalized recommendations encompassing a spectrum of activities, from range-of-motion exercises to strength training and aerobic workouts. By seeking professional guidance, individuals can embark on an exercise journey tailored to their unique needs, ultimately fostering improved joint health and overall well-being.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.