When you think of arthritis, you probably think of stiff joints and swollen muscles. Maybe you picture an elderly person with pained wrists or knees who must use an assistive device simply to walk through the house. But it needn’t be this way. Just because you’ve been diagnosed with arthritis doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to feelings of flexibility and body movement. Maybe you think that you can no longer move the way you used to. The opposite is true: arthritis patients must seek out movement more than they did before their diagnosis. Movement is important to retain flexibility, improve posture, and build strength.

A visit to the chiropractor can often be beneficial to arthritis patients, particularly if you are affected in the spine or back muscles. Some patients may not be good candidate for chiropractic therapy because their joints may be too fragile. If your doctor agrees that you may receive some benefit from it, ask for a recommendation.

While technically not thought of as a bodywork exercise, massage can be the saving grace for many arthritis sufferers. A professional massage can go a long way toward relieving your tight, contracted muscles. If you don’t receive massages on a regular basis, ask friends or family members for recommendations.

Yoga is an effective yet gentle enough bodywork exercise that can keep your body flexible while not overexerting your joints and muscles. Beside the physical benefits (of which there are many), yoga can provide relaxation and anxiety-reducing effects that can linger long after a session on the mat. Try yoga when your feeling stressed, tired, or stiff.

How you move your body, and how much you choose to move it has a tremendous effect on your health and overall sense of well-being. Gentle yet effective exercises such as walking, bicycling, and yoga can restore your body’s sense of health, vigor, and well being. Exercise can help you release toxic stress and balance even the most out of whack emotions .

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Arthritis and Exercise