Exercise for arthritis

THIS September, Arthritis & Osteoporosis Tasmania is launching ‘The Joint Movement’ strength training program at the Clarence Integrated Care Centre.

Evidence states that simple exercises can and will help people living with arthritis.

The Joint Movement group exercise classes are suitable for adults of all ages, abilities and fitness levels, and are supervised by a trained exercise professional.

People with arthritis often worry that exercise may harm their joints and cause more pain.

Jackie Slyp, chief executive officer at Arthritis & Osteoporosis Tasmania, said this was not the case.

“Exercise is considered the most effective non-drug treatment for reducing pain and stiffness and improving movement,” she said.

In the case of osteoarthritis, exercise provides benefits similar to those of commonly used pain-relieving drugs.

Exercising regularly has many health benefits including increased strength, flexibility, balance and energy and decreased pain, stiffness and fatigue.

“The main exercise goals for people with arthritis are to help them continue to participate in social, domestic, occupational and recreational pursuits by reducing pain and improving physical function,” Joint Movement leader Emma Martyn said.

Exercise also improves mental health, making people feel better and more confident in coping with their condition.

Strength training involves working your muscles a little harder than you do in normal life and are particularly important for muscle, bone and joint health.

Strong muscles help to support our joints and keep them in the right position when we move.

If muscles are weak, the joints can become unstable and this can be painful.

Physically inactive people lose muscle mass each decade after age 30, making it even more important to participate in regular strength training as we age.

The Joint Movement strength training program offers weekly strength exercise classes and an individual pre-exercise assessment to help you get the most out of the program.

To express your interest in the Joint Movement program or for information about your condition, please phone the Arthritis Infoline 1800 011 041 or visit www.arthritistas.org.au

Caption: Arthritis & Osteoporosis Tasmania’s Joint Movement classes are suitable for all ages, abilities and fitness levels.