Why You Need to Exercise if You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis

It may seem hard to imagine, but exercise is a must if you have rheumatoid arthritis. You might not see how you could possibly workout if you’re in so much pain you find it hard to even get out of bed. But as long as your exercise regimen is safe and you get your doctor’s OK, it can really help improve your quality of life.

Moderation is Key

Any sort of workout routine will present at least some risk. So it needs to be as safe as possible – don’t ever overdo it. But a controlled program could help increase your flexibility, which will make it easier for you to perform everyday tasks.
There are several reasons why an exercise program can be a great benefit. It can boost your energy levels, help improve the quality of sleep, reduce joint pain and increase your strength. Even more important, exercise will improve your mental well-being.
Even a little bit of exercise will help. Of course, if you’re experiencing an RA flare-up, you’ll need to speak with your doctor or physical therapist before doing anything.

What Kind of Exercises are Best?

Only you and your doctor will know exactly what kind of workout routine will be best for you. The good news is that you’ll have plenty of options. There are a lot of low-impact exercises that work well for people with RA. These include walking, swimming, stretching and many others.
A doctor with Rheumatology Care of North Houston can work with you to determine the most effective – and safest – exercise routine for your specific situation. Contact us online today or call 832.532.9779 to schedule an appointment.