What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, commonly known as "wear-and-tear" arthritis, is a condition that affects the joints in our bodies. It's caused when the protective cartilage covering bones in a joint wears down over time. This can result in pain and stiffness in the affected areas of the body.

As osteoarthritis grows worse, joint movement may become more difficult or even impossible due to swelling and tenderness in these regions.

While osteoarthritis is a slowly progressive disease and there is no cure, physical therapy and exercise can help to minimize pain and stiffness while also improving mobility.

Why exercise is helpful for knee arthritis

Exercise is a great way to help manage knee arthritis.

Regular exercise helps reduce inflammation and fatigue, while also improving range of motion, strength and cardiovascular capacity.

Not only will exercise make it easier to perform everyday activities like walking or climbing the stairs, but it can also have positive effects on mood and mental health. Many people find exercise helpful in combating pain associated with arthritis, as well as calming anxiety associated with this condition.

All exercise routines should be tailored to your individual needs and abilities so that you can get the maximum benefit from physical activity!

Exercises that can reduce pain

Stretching

Exercising with knee arthritis can be challenging, but it's important to stretch and stay active.

Stretching provides an opportunity to keep your muscles resilient while relieving stiffness. Incorporating low-impact stretching into your routine is essential for those with knee arthritis, as it strengthens the muscles that support joints and wards off joint pain.

To begin with start slowly incorporating basic stretches into your regular routine such as ankle circles and lunges, taking care not to stretch too far or hold a stretch for too long.

Focus on stretching the hips and legs as tightness in this area can also contribute to knee pain. With appropriate steps and care, exercising while experiencing knee arthritis is possible -- so don't forget to stretch!

Walking

Walking is one of the greatest forms of exercise for anyone, but especially for those dealing with knee arthritis.

It’s a low-impact activity that can help strengthen the muscles around affected knees and reduce joint pain. Plus, walking helps improve blood flow throughout the body and increases joint stability, both of which are essential in managing ongoing pain.

With walking, it’s also essential to take breaks when needed - too much walking or walking that’s too intense can further irritate or inflame the joints, so it pays to listen to your body when necessary.

But if done in moderation and with the right form, walking can be a great way to manage knee arthritis without sacrificing an active lifestyle.

Squatting

Those with knee arthritis can benefit from squatting exercises. Squats help strengthen the major muscles around your knees and improve flexibility, which are both important for those dealing with knee issues.

They also provide additional support to help both prevent further damage and rehabilitate existing knee issues.

When squatting, it is important to keep good posture and form so you don’t injure yourself further. Additionally, using props such as a resistance band can help progress squat exercises in a safe way while strengthening your leg muscles even further. With regular squatting, your knees should begin to feel stronger and better over time.

Range of motion exercises

Range of motion exercises are an important part of managing arthritis in the knee.

This type of exercise helps to improve range of motion, reduce pain and stiffness, enhance movement, and preserve muscle strength in the area. With range of motion exercises, the person performs slow repetitive motions that involve stretching in order to lubricate and strengthen the joints located in their knees.

It doesn't matter how old you are - range of motion exercises can be adapted for anyone at any age or level. They're a great way to take control over your health, decrease pain associated with arthritis, and increase your mobility.

Be Safe While Exercising and Use Assistive Devices, If Necessary

When exercising with knee arthritis it is important to use assistive devices such as a cane or a brace if needed in order to maintain balance and reduce stress on the joint.

Additionally a foam roller or massage ball can be used before or after exercise sessions in order to relax tight muscles surrounding the joint which may cause discomfort or further restriction of movement if left unchecked.

Finally using an ice pack after exercise sessions will help reduce inflammation around the joint which could lead to greater pain if left untreated for too long.

Exercising with knee arthritis does not have to be painful or difficult! By following these tips you will learn how to safely engage in physical activity while ensuring that your knee stays healthy and strong over time. Remember that consistency is key; sticking with your routine is the only way you will see results! With patience, dedication, and proper safety precautions you should be able to find an exercise regimen that works best for you!