The study, published in Arthritis Care, has concluded that regular exercise is the way to relieve the pain of arthritis. They specifically cite the USA Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program as an effective course to significantly improve and manage arthritis pain. Among American baby boomers, arthritis is projected to increase by 40%, affecting 67 million Americans in the next two decades.
The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program was developed in 1987 specifically to reduce pain and stiffness by keeping joints flexible and muscles strong. Participants in the study reported that they experienced less pain and tiredness, an increase in upper body and lower body function and an increase in strength. They participated in the programme for eight weeks. Those who independently continued the programme beyond eight weeks reported further improvement in function and lessening of pain.
The study has shown that exercise is even effective in inactive, older people, according to Leigh Callahan, the lead author of the study. The basic eight week programme consists of low impact exercises that improve range of movement, which can even be done while sitting.
The Chief Public Health Officer of the USA Arthritis Foundation says that even simple lifestyle changes such as a 10 minute walk three times a day can improve symptoms and help to prevent arthritis becoming more painful.
See http://www.arthritis.org/ for more information.
