Exercise Specialist Recommendations: People with osteoarthritis usually self-limit their physical activity. This is a mistake, because an appropriately designed exercise program can halt the progression of the condition, as well as restore function and mobility. Moreover, limiting physical activity leads to the development of secondary problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension. Studies have demonstrated quite conclusively that a regular exercise program that involves cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and stretching, can create marked improvements in functional capacity, pain, and disability.
Get professional guidance! I don’t usually begin a list of recommendations with this one, but in the case of osteoarthritis it is critical that an exercise program is designed properly to avoid further joint damage. This can be a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or exercise specialist who has experience treating your specific condition.
Stop immediately if you feel pain. The presence of pain while exercising is a direct sign that the joint is being damaged. Never work through pain!
Consider taking glucosamine sulphate with low molecular condroitin. A study by the National Institutes of Health in 2006 reported better relief of pain and no known side effects, as compared to the anti-inflammatory drug Celebrex or a placebo. This supplement is widely available in pharmacies and health food stores. Another supplement that has shown promise is called ASU - avocado soybean unsaponifiables. This is available with and without glucosamine.
If you are experiencing a great deal of pain and it is interfering with your ability to exercise, consider speaking to your physician to discuss appropriate anti-inflammatory medication. When used judiciously, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can enable you to stay active, and therefore stay strong. As stronger muscles take the burden off of compromised joints, finding tools to continue to exercise is important, even if the route that has to be taken is pharmacological.