Exercise and Osteoarthritis
Exercise and OsteoarthritisSkip to the navigationTopic OverviewA regular exercise program is an important part of anyone's
lifestyle. If you have
osteoarthritis, check with your health professional
before beginning or continuing any exercise so that you can determine whether
it is safe and effective for osteoarthritic joints. Stretching exercises will help prevent the stiffness associated with
osteoarthritis and help prevent injury. Strengthening muscles and ligaments
makes arthritic joints stronger and reduces stress on the joint. Stronger thigh
muscles, for example, take some of the stress off of weight-bearing joints such
as knees and hips. Simple exercise, such as walking or tai chi, may help reduce
knee pain. A
physical therapist sometimes is needed to help a
person with damaged joints or joint replacement learn the best exercise for his
or her particular condition. CreditsByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Elizabeth T. Russo, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerJoan Rigg, PT, OCS - Physical Therapy Current as ofNovember 28, 2016 Current as of:
November 28, 2016 Last modified on: 8 September 2017
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