The word ‘Arthritis‘ means joint inflammation. The signs of arthritis include pain, swelling, joint stiffness and difficulty in moving one or more joints. Arthritis can affect a person’s life unless it is treated on time.

TYPES OF ARTHRITIS:

There are many types of arthritis. The most common types of arthritis are
⦁ Osteoarthritis
⦁ Rheumatoid arthritis

Treating osteoarthritis of the knee

Osteoarthritis:

This type of arthritis includes wear and tear of cartilage bones due to injuries. It may also be caused due to the deviation of normal body mechanics. By correcting the body mechanics, the percentage of wear and tear can be greatly reduced. It can be controlled to a great extent along with medicines and physiotherapy.

Rheumatoid arthritis:

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease which attacks the cells in the joint capsule and destroys the cartilage, bones, and ligaments that lead to deformity and disability.

ARTHRITIS AND EXERCISE:

Physiotherapy plays a major role in treating both osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis. A physiotherapist can assess the basic causes for arthritis and helps to correct the predisposing factors. Physical exercises benefit people by improving pain, function and mental health.

TYPES OF EXERCISES FOR ARTHRITIC PATIENTS:

Treadmill Exercise for Arthritis

There are many types of exercises available to treat arthritic patients to improve their body performance. Some are listed below

1. The range of motion exercises:
These exercises are simple stretching exercises which move each joint as far as possible in all directions. These exercises help to maintain normal joint movements and helps to relieve from stiffness. Daily housework or office work are not substituted for this exercise.

2. Strengthening exercises:
These exercises help to increase the muscle strength by providing stability, support, and protection to joints. These exercises also help to move joints freely with less pain. Isometric, isotonic or isokinetic exercises can be performed according to the patient’s condition. Isometric exercises help to tighten the muscle without any joint movements.

3. Endurance exercises:
These types of exercises help to maintain cardiac fitness to increase the physical strength of the body. Aerobic exercises like walking, usage of bicycle or treadmill under the supervision of physiotherapist can help to prevent complications.

HOW OFTEN PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS SHOULD DO EXERCISES:

1. The range of motion exercises should be done daily for at least one time.
2. Strengthening exercises should be done every day unless you have severe pain or swelling in joint.
3. Endurance exercises should be done 20 to 30 minutes for at least 3 times in a week.