• Most people think that arthritis is just aches and pains.
• Most common cause of disability in U.S.
• Can effect both young and old – types of arthritis
• Can be treated and/or prevented with movement
• Physical activity does NOT make your arthritis worse – as long as it’s the right kind of physical activity. For many years, almost everyone thought that being active was harmful for someone who had arthritis, so we were told to “rest our joints.” Now we know being physically active is essential to improve your arthritis. Research has shown that physical activity actually benefits people with arthritis, by helping to reduce pain and stiffness

You mentioned staying active as a preventative method in treating arthritis, how exactly can movement play a role in treating arthritis?

• Physical activity is essential to taking control of your arthritis! The benefits of physical activity include pain relief, weight loss, reduced disability, improved well-being, improved joint function, and overall health benefits like lower blood pressure, more energy, better sleep, clearer thinking, less tension and stress to name a few

With various levels of arthritis how do people determine what type of movement is best?

• Understanding your type of arthritis

• Consulting your physician to determine what type of program best fits your needs

• Selecting the appropriate exercise and management program (Life Improvement Series) A well-rounded physical activity program for people with arthritis includes several different types of activities:

  • Range of motion activites increases your flexibility.
  • Strengthening activities make your muscles stronger. A strong muscle is better able to support a joint.
  • Aerobic conditioning, or endurance, activities are good for your heart. Swimming, walking and biking are all examples.
  • Balance activities improve your stability and increase your confidence in moving around without falling. Standing on one leg is a good example of a balance activity.
• The Arthritis Foundation has a number of programs available to help you start moving.

Can you elaborate on the movement programs available through the Arthritis Foundation?

• The Arthritis Foundation has a number of physical activity programs available that are safe and effective for people with arthritis.

  • Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program uses a combination of soothing warm water and gentle movements to help increase joint flexibility and range of motion. Also shown to help restore and maintain muscle strength, the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program can relieve arthritis pain and stiffness, as well as provide a support system for people with arthritis. Although the classes are held in the water, swimming ability is not necessary to participate in this program!
  • Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is a fun-filled, low-impact course that helps most people with arthritis increase their joint flexibility and find relief from arthritis pain and stiffness. It features gentle, joint save movements.
  • Arthritis Foundation Tai-Chi Program is a joint-safe program which has been shown to improve pain, stiffness, flexibility, and muscle strength for those with mild to moderate arthritis. Developed by Dr. Paul Lam, the program features agile steps and range of motion exercises and its movements utilize higher stances.
• Contact your local Arthritis Foundation chapter to find out how you can get participate in one of these programs.

In regards to Let’s Move Together, what advice could you provide as participants continue their commitment to move daily?

• Set a goal (2009 Arthritis Foundation Walk)
• Get your friends involved (build your own movement to increase motivation)
• Keep it interesting! (variety of movement)

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