As we age, we often encounter new “friends” like Arthur Itis and Ben Gay, thanks to the breakdown of protective cartilage in our joints. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, sets in, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially in the neck, shoulders, spine, hips, and knees.
Understanding Osteoarthritis:
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease associated with the wear and tear of life, affecting bones, spinal disks, and joints. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which results from the immune system attacking the body, osteoarthritis progresses over time, impacting functional capabilities and causing pain and physical limitations.
Managing Osteoarthritis:
Combatting osteoarthritis involves effective strategies. Starting the day with stretches and exercises can provide an edge against this condition, reducing pain and enhancing the ability to perform daily tasks.
Here are five low-impact exercises designed to target common areas affected by osteoarthritis:
- Compass Points—Neck:
Combat the effects of osteoarthritis on the neck with slow, deliberate movements. Nod your head downward and upward, turn your head side to side, and tilt it gently from side to side. Repeat these movements ten times each, ensuring a gradual pace and no provocation of pain.
- Pendulum Exercises—Shoulders:
Promote shoulder range of motion with pendulum exercises. Gently swing your arm in circular, forward-backward, and side-to-side motions. These low-stress movements help warm up your shoulders, providing relief.
- Reverse Wall Touches—Spine:
Ease spine stiffness with reverse wall touches. Stand or sit with your back to a wall, rotate your shoulders, and touch the wall behind you. Perform ten repetitions, maintaining good posture and avoiding hip rotation.
- Standing Alphabet—Hips:
Address hip pain caused by osteoarthritis with the standing alphabet exercise. Lift one leg and use your toe to draw letters of the alphabet. Switch legs and repeat. Keep hips level and move slowly, focusing on joint flexibility.
- Standing Kick Backs—Knees:
Strengthen and warm up the knees with standing kick backs. Lift one foot behind you, hold for a second, and then lower it. Perform three sets of 20 repetitions for each leg, ensuring a slow and controlled pace.
Incorporate these exercises into your morning routine to increase joint flexibility, alleviate pain, and enhance functionality. Consult your physician before starting any exercise program, especially if you have health or mobility concerns. Take charge of your osteoarthritis with these targeted exercises for a more active and pain-free life.