Exercising regularly has multiple benefits for people, both for physical and mental health. The World Health Organization points out that it reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety and contributes to general well-being.
“People with an insufficient level of physical activity have a 20% to 30% higher risk of death compared to people who achieve a sufficient level of physical activity,” says the WHO.
In the case of people who have received a diagnosis of arthritis, physical exercise is even more important. When you don’t do physical activity, your joints can become more painful and stiff.
Mayo Clinic, non-profit organization dedicated to clinical practice, education, and research, explains why this is the case: “Strengthening muscles and the tissue around joints is critical to supporting bones. Not exercising weakens the supporting muscles, which puts more stress on the joints.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exercise can help improve the quality of life for these patients and alleviate the general discomfort caused by arthritis.
“Physical activities that do not strain the joints are low-impact, which means they put less stress on the body and therefore reduce the risk of injury. Some examples include walking, bicycling, and swimming. Being physically active can also delay the onset of arthritis-related disability and help people with arthritis to manage other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or obesity, “he adds.
It should be noted that exercise works as a complement and not as a replacement for medical treatment. Other benefits of physical activity for people with arthritis include the following:
The US National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases indicates that maintaining a healthy weight is an important factor in relieving the discomfort caused by arthritis. Physical activity helps maintain it.
“Control your weight to help reduce stress on your joints. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help reduce pain, prevent further injury, and improve movement in your joints. This can be especially helpful for knees or hips.”
recommendations
For people who have arthritis, exercising can worry them, due to possible injury. Before starting to do so, it is important to consult a doctor to receive approval and supervision. To do so safely, the CDC provides several recommendations:
- Start with little physical activity and gradually increase.
- Change activity when arthritis symptoms increase.
- Perform exercises that do not strain the joints.
- Exercise in safe places.
- Have the support of an expert in physical training to supervise the performance of each exercise and avoid injuries.
General benefits of physical exercise
The WHO points out the benefits of regular physical activity:
- Prevent the risk of heart diseases and conditions, cerebrovascular accidents (stroke), diabetes and various types of cancers.
- Helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Improves the general well-being of the organism.
- Helps prevent non-communicable diseases.
- It guarantees the good growth and development of young people.
- Reduces the risk of falls, fractures and injuries.
- Helps maintain a healthy weight.