There are numerous benefits of exercise. It leads td increased strength and flexibility in the muscles and ligaments surrounding the joints. In addition, it helps to maintain or increase the strength of bone. Exercises, such as swimming or walking, have beneficial effects on the heart that promote increased endurance and circulation and fight deterioration of the arteries.

Every tissue in the body requires certain foods or nutrients to work effectively. Most tissues have arteries that bring essential foods to them, but this is not true of the joint cartilage. It is only through movement that nourishment is brought by the synovial fluid to the joint cartilage and those waste products are removed. Thus, exercise promotes good joint nutrition.

Exercise is a way we can prevent the loss of function that may accompany arthritis. If you do not use a muscle or joint you will lose strength and mobility, and thus, function. Slow progress is to be expected, particularly if your arthritis is severe or your joint limitations have existed for a long time.

When Should You Exercise?

Exercise daily for the rest of your life. It is the weekend warrior who gets into trouble with painful strained muscles and ligaments. The only time a joint should not be exercised is when it is inflamed, or hot (swollen red, tender to the touch).

Find a specific time and place to exercise and make this a part of your daily routine. You will have to decide on the best lime, but consider the following. It is best to exercise when, one you have the least pain, two you have the least stiffness, three you are not tired, and four your medication is having maximum effect. You probably want one such period early in the day, and one later.