Disclaimer: As a service to our visitors, we write blogs to inform you and give you resources for your journey to healthiness. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Tip for the day is on rheumatoid arthritis pain and how to stay active.
So why, you may be wondering why did she title this blog to keep moving through your pain. If you don't stay active, your joints will stiffen more and cause more pain. If you have to do miniature steps do something. Stay active.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause pain and stiffness that makes moving the last thing you want to do.
But staying active is important. Not only is it beneficial for your general health — it's also a way to strengthen your joints, improve your range of motion, and give you the opportunity to take part in the activities you enjoy.
Be cautious when starting an exercise program. You may want to develop a plan with a physical therapist. A physical therapist can help strengthen and protect your muscles.
An excellent exercise program should provide these elements:
Aerobic conditioning-Exercise that increases your heart rate and breathing rate has many benefits, including lowering your chances of developing conditions such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
Resistance training-Weak muscles, whether due to inactivity or to the side effects of medications can diminish your stamina and leave joints less stable. Isometric exercises can be a great way to start resistance training. When pain is under control, free weights or weight machines are good options for building muscle and increasing strength.
Stretching and flexibility exercises- Joints damaged by rheumatoid arthritis , just don't move the same. It may be very important to include stretching exercises such as pilates, yoga and tai chi.
Balance exercises-When balance is an issue, that makes you vulnerable to fall. Your physical therapist may include practicing standing on one leg or exercises to strengthen your core muscles.