Arthritis can make movement feel difficult, but staying active is one of the best ways to manage joint pain and maintain mobility. The key is choosing the right types of exercise. Activities that strengthen and support your joints rather than putting additional stress on them are excellent for managing arthritis.
ReGen Pain Management specializes in helping patients find effective, nonsurgical solutions for chronic pain conditions, and this includes providing arthritis care. Our team offers advanced pain management strategies that reduce inflammation and discomfort while supporting long-term joint health.
If you're looking for ways to stay active with arthritis, here are some expert-recommended tips to keep you moving safely.
It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise program. A customized approach to movement can help you stay active while protecting your joints from further damage.
At ReGen Pain Management, our team evaluates your current symptoms, assesses joint function, and may use imaging tests to determine the extent of joint damage. Based on these findings, we develop a personalized plan that may include in-office treatments to relieve pain, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility before you start exercising.
For some patients, targeted therapies such as joint injections can help control inflammation. Since inflammation not only causes pain, but also contributes to cartilage breakdown, managing it effectively can slow or prevent further joint deterioration.
Jumping into an intense workout can do more harm than good, so it’s important to ease into any new exercise plan. Even small amounts of movement can provide benefits. If walking is your choice, start with just five-minute walks twice a day and gradually increase the duration as your joints become accustomed to the movement.
Breaking up workouts into shorter, manageable sessions can make it easier to stick with a routine and reduces the risk of overloading painful joints. Gradual progression also gives your body time to adapt.
High-impact activities like running or jumping can put extra strain on arthritic joints, particularly the knees, hips, and spine. Instead, opt for low-impact exercises that support joint health while keeping you active.
Some of the best low-impact exercises for arthritis include:
These exercises allow you to stay active without increasing discomfort.
A well-rounded approach to exercise includes both flexibility and strength training. Gentle stretching improves range of motion, while strengthening exercises help support joints by reinforcing the muscles around them. Stronger muscles reduce the load on joints, which can decrease pain and enhance stability.
Before adding any new exercises, check with your care team to ensure they’re appropriate for your level of joint health. Proper technique and modifications can make a difference in preventing strain or injury.
Arthritis doesn’t have to keep you from staying active and enjoying life. With the right approach, exercise can help relieve stiffness, improve mobility, and support overall joint health.
The ReGen Pain Management team works with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that address pain while promoting long-term joint function. If you’re ready to take control of your arthritis pain and explore safe exercise options, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
