Health Information
Exercise and Osteoarthritis
Topic Overview
A regular exercise program is an important part of anyone's lifestyle. If you have Reference osteoarthritis Opens New Window, 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, can significantly decrease knee pain.
A Reference physical therapist Opens New Window sometimes is needed to help a person with damaged joints or joint replacement learn the best exercise for his or her particular condition.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference April 8, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference David A. Fleckenstein, PT, MPT - Physical Therapy |
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