Four Fitness Facts to Fuel Your Workout
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes the immune system to attack healthy joints. Certain types of exercise help reduce joint pain and stiffness occurring with this condition. Staying active can also help combat fatigue, maintain strength, and keep bones strong.
This article discusses types of exercise that can help improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Exercises for Rheumatoid Arthritis
A well-rounded exercise program for rheumatoid arthritis should include stretching, aerobic conditioning, and strengthening exercises.
The recommended amount of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for adults is at least 150 minutes per week. In addition, strength-training exercises for the major muscle groups throughout your body should be performed at least twice a week.
Stretching Routine
Stiffness is a common characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis. Stiffness usually is felt first thing in the morning or after you've been sitting for a while.
Joint stiffness often affects the hands, wrists, ankles, knees, and elbows. You can do stretches for these joints before you get out of bed in the morning.
Perform each of the following movements 10 times:
- Make a fist and then straighten your fingers and spread them wide apart.
- Bend your wrists forward and backward.
- Bend and straighten your elbows. Read More...