Call the clinic020 3305 6186 Book online

Osteopathy in Central London

Exercises for Arthritis

Exercise is essential for effective arthritis treatment. It helps manage symptoms and enhance joint health. Regular physical activity can improve joint flexibility, reduce stiffness, and strengthen the muscles that support the joints.

Range of Motion Exercises

These arthritis exercise treatments are designed to help maintain or improve flexibility by gently guiding the joints through their full range of motion. Examples include arm circles, shoulder rolls, and knee bends.

Strength Training

Strengthening the muscles around the joints reduces pressure and helps prevent further injury. Resistance bands, light weights, and bodyweight exercises like squats are excellent choices.

Low-Impact Aerobics

Swimming, cycling, and walking help improve cardiovascular health without straining the joints. Water aerobics, in particular, is a popular choice for people with arthritis because it provides resistance while reducing impact.

Stretching

Gentle stretching helps keep muscles and joints flexible. Focus on stretching major muscle groups such as the hamstrings, quadriceps, and shoulders. Yoga and Pilates are also excellent forms of stretching.

Balance Exercises

These exercises help improve coordination and reduce the risk of falls. Standing on one leg or practising Tai Chi can enhance balance and stability.

Daily Movement

Those with arthritis need to stay physically active throughout the day. Small movements, such as standing up and stretching every hour, can significantly improve joint flexibility.

Doing these exercises safely

Gentle, regular movement is one of the best things you can do for arthritic joints. Start with a few repetitions and build up slowly. Some mild discomfort is normal, but stop if pain becomes sharp or the joint swells afterwards. Avoid exercising a joint while it is hot and inflamed.

Everyday tips

  • Warm up with a short walk or a warm shower first
  • Spread activity through the day rather than doing it all at once
  • Keep to a healthy weight to take load off your knees and hips
  • Swimming and cycling are kind to sore joints

When to see us

If your joints are getting stiffer or the exercises are hard to manage, an assessment can help. Your osteopath can treat the area and tailor the exercises to you.

Book an appointment or call 020 3305 6186.

Arthritis
Causes
Types
Treatments
Oxford Circus Station
Bond Street
Great Portland street
Goodge Street Station
Regent's Park
Tottenham Court Road
Warren Street
Book now