Best Exercises For Arthritis
Table of Contents
Arthritis is the degeneration of the cartilage that cushions our joints so that bones do not rub against each other when we move. This could happen as we grow older and also due to the repetitive use of bones, which can damage the protective cartilage. Or it could result from an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks the lining of the joint’s membrane. Whatever be the cause of arthritis, it is accompanied by pain and limited range of motion and may restrict a person’s regular lifestyle.
But thankfully, the symptoms of arthritis can be managed with exercise. So what is the best exercise for arthritis? Read on to find out-
What Is The Best Exercise For Arthritis?
Different kinds of exercises apply to different kinds of arthritis. The exercises that alleviate finger joint pain may not be of any help against hip arthritis. So, let us look at which joints are usually affected by arthritis and the corresponding pain-relieving exercises -
The joints that are most commonly affected by arthritis are:
- Knees
- Hips
- Spine
- Fingers
- Toes
Exercises for knee arthritis
Knee arthritis tends to act up at the start of the day or towards the end. With these exercises, you will be able to beat back the stiffness and the swelling:
- Straight-leg raises while sitting
- Strengthening exercises
- Leg stretch
- Straight-leg raise while lying
- Step-ups
- Leg cross
- Knee squats
- Sit/stands
Exercises for spine arthritis
Spine arthritis usually manifests as pain or stiffness in the lower back. Here are a few exercises that will relieve back pain caused by arthritis-
- Partial crunches
- Hamstring stretches
- Wall sits
- Press-ups
- Knee to the chest while lying flat on the back
- Pelvic tilts
- Bridging
Exercises for hip arthritis
Hip arthritis exercises mostly comprise of a bunch of stretches that free up the hips:
- Hip flexor stretch
- Butterfly stretch
- Squats
- Figure 4 stretches
- Leg swings
- Side leg raise
Exercises for finger arthritis
Arthritis of the fingers can be one of the most difficult types of arthritis to deal with. However, with a few finger exercises, you can retain much of their dexterity-
- Make your fingers into a fist and then unclench them
- Successive finger bends
- Making an O with the fingers
- Finger lift (with your hand lying flat on a table)
Exercises for toe arthritis
Toe pain can be alleviated with a few simple toe crunches. Set your foot down on a towel and try to grip it with your toes. Another exercise for your toes is wiggling your toes. To determine if a particular exercise is suitable for you, talk to a doctor online on DocsApp.
Conclusion
Exercises can help improve the quality of life of patients suffering from arthritis. You obtain maximum benefits if you do them regularly.
