Information for Patients & Caregivers

'Exercise can actually reduce joint pain'

Regular exercise can actually reduce the incidence of joint pain in many osteoarthritis sufferers, it has been claimed.

According to orthopaedic specialist Dr Robert Meislin, many patients are concerned that exercise may put excessive amounts of strain on aging joints and as a result avoid strenuous activity.

However, he noted that "while it's true that high-impact activities like running, tennis and basketball can aggravate pain, it's also true that low-impact activities like swimming, cycling and yoga can actually lessen joint discomfort and improve flexibility".

Speaking to NapsNet.com, Dr Meislin said not only can aerobic exercise strengthen muscles, it can encourage weight loss, which will in-turn reduce stress on weight-bearing joints such as a person's hip or knees.

"Exercise prevents disease, lightens mood, improves balance, averts falls and overall preserves independence," he concluded.

Recently, Cirian Marie-Beddoes, leading dietician and head of weight management services at The Hospital Group, claimed that health authorities need to tackle obesity if osteoarthritis is to be reduced.

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