Water Activity Alters Pain of Arthritis

The Arthritis Foundation estimates that 1 in 4 people over the age of 65 suffer from some form of arthritis. Exercise is important in controlling the symptoms of arthritis. It can keep joints flexible, keep muscles strong, improve cardiovascular health, and protect joints from further stress. A daily exercise program will reward you with easier movement and better health.

There are 3 exercise goals that the person with arthritis should try to achieve. These are to improve joint mobility, improve strength, and improve endurance. Water is a great exercise medium for individuals with arthritis because of its many beneficial properties listed below:

• Reduce joint stress during exercise - due to the buoyant effect of water

• Increase muscle strength - water assists weak muscles and challenges stronger muscles

• Promote cardiovascular fitness - walking in water to achieve target heart rate is as beneficial as on land

• Increase joint motion without increasing pain - warm water (92-94°) is both comforting and relaxing

Source: GeriNotes, Vol 9, No 5 by Meri Goehring, PT, MHS, GCS