The days are long past when doctors told people who suffer from arthritis to lie around and rest. As a matter of fact, it is now proven that physical activity can actually reduce your arthritis pain, and improve your function, mood and mobility. These benefits can be had with most types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, as well as fibromyalgia and lupus.

According to the CDC, regular exercise is just as important for people with arthritis as it is for all other populations of adults and children. Studies show that physical activity that is of moderate intensity and low impact will improve your pain, quality of life and mood. It will do so without making your symptoms worse.

In addition, staying physically active can delay onset of disability if you do have arthritis. Of course, people who have arthritis may have a harder time staying active due to stiffness and pain. They also may lack confidence about how much to exercise and what to do. Generally speaking, both aerobic exercise and strength training have been shown to be effective, and both are good choices for those with arthritis.

Activity Recommendations for Arthritis Sufferers

In 2008, the Department of Health and Human Services published a Physical Activity Guideline for Americans. These guidelines are based upon the latest science, and should be followed by all adults and children, including people with arthritis. Those with arthritis should follow the recommendations for Active Adults if possible, which are:

• Active Adults should engage in 2.5 hours of moderate intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise, PLUS muscle strengthening twice per week. For more benefits, they should do five hours of moderate intensity aerobic exercise or 2.5 hours of vigorous exercise per week, PLUS muscle strengthening twice per week.

Arthritis Supplies

The Elasto-Gel Therapy Mitten

If you have problems with arthritis pain and want to stay active, we have a wide range of affordable arthritis products available. For instance, our Elasto-Gel Lumbar Wrap is a good choice for after a workout. This thermal wrap can provide either cold compress or soothing heat therapy to your lower back and hips.  Or, please consider the Elasto-Gel Therapy Mitten. This helpful hot and cold therapy product allows you to provide heat or cold to your hand easily. This is a perfect way to ease arthritis hand pain, either after a workout or any time.