Exercise is a preventative measure in arthritis as it builds up the muscles surrounding the affected joint, making it more stable and less susceptible to further damage. Exercise also relieves arthritic pain and improves joint mobility.

A combination of stretching, aerobic exercise and isometric exercise has been found to be most successful in the treatment of arthritis.

Stretching is best done after heat is applied to the joint or in conjunction with pain medication.  Yoga may also be a beneficial stretching exercise for arthritis patients. Joint mobilization may be used as a form of stretching, but should be done with a physical therapist.  In joint mobilization, the therapist moves the affected joint to full range of motion. At times this can be painful, but by reaching full range the joint pain is often reduced. 

Aerobic exercise is useful in maintaining overall health as well as reducing arthritis pain.  The best aerobic exercises for arthritis patients are swimming, water aerobics and walking on level ground. Water aerobics is highly recommended because the buoyancy of the water makes it possible to exercise without putting excess strain on arthritic joints.

Isometric exercises are exercises in which muscles are tensed for a period of time and then relaxed.  The muscle is worked, but there is no movement of the joint.  Isometrics can be done with or without resistance to increase the size and strength of the muscle surround the affected joint.

In many cases the onset of arthritis can be delayed or prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

• Keep your weight down.  Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the amount of stress placed on your joints and in many cases will prevent arthritis.
  
• Exercise regularly. It is recommended that all Americans get at least 30 minutes of exercise a minimum of three times a week.  Exercise helps keep your joints lubricated and will prevent the cartilage from degenerating.
  
• Stretch. Stretching after exercise keeps you limber and helps you to avoid injuries. 
  
• Protect your joints. By using safe lifting techniques when moving heavy objects you can help protect your joints from arthritis.