For the active individual, being diagnosed with arthritis feels as if your body is going against everything that you’ve been working towards. It’s incredibly discouraging, with the daunting impression that you have to give up on the activities that you enjoy.
Thankfully, that doesn’t have to be the case at all.
There is increasing evidence that physical activities don’t worsen arthritis, but in fact help to reduce the symptoms.
In terms of active individuals, the type of arthritis commonly found is one known as osteoarthritis; the difference is that rather than just the immune system attacking the layer between joints, it is in fact rubbed away by twisting or tearing injuries that cause inflammation. In worse cases, osteoarthritis may require large doses of medication or even joint-replacement surgery.
As a runner too, The Arthritis Society’s Karen Gordon, a registered physiotherapist, explained that, “The motion of running does not lead to arthritis.”
“In fact, studies suggest lower incidence of degenerative arthritis among runners than among swimmers – even though swimming is often cited as a lower-impact alternative to running.”
So what needs to change?
The answer may be simpler than you might think.
With some consultancy with your doctor or gym instructor may be key to tackling osteoarthritis; a change in footwear and different running or exercise techniques may be all that is needed, regardless of were your ailment is sitting on your body.
“Exercise is an important part of both prevention and management of arthritis,” said Gordon. “Physical activity increases blood flow to the joints, which promotes healing. A properly designed exercise program may not only decrease your pain, but may also increase your flexibility and overall fitness – and it can do wonders for your state of mind, an important factor for someone living with the pain of arthritis.”
Some stiffness or sensations of soreness after a lengthy period of goofing-off is perfectly natural and nothing to be alarmed about.
Getting arthritis is not the end of your active life. Whilst an obstacle, it stands as a challenge that the individual can overcome; in fact, plenty of exercise is beneficial to your body. By taking on the treadmill or darting through those watery lengths, you can lessen the chances of your disorder becoming worse.