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Sick joints that are not exercised stiffen even more and degenerate, which is why movement is one of the main treatments for rheumatic diseases.
Exercise is a necessary complement to pharmacological treatment at each stage of the disease advancement. And if the disease is not advanced, they become the primary method of treatment. Movement prevents the joints from stiffening. It affects, among others preferably for articular cartilage, prevents muscle wasting, which allows movement in the joint, reduces pain and muscle tension.
Against the pain
Starting exercise is often associated with overcoming pain, sometimes even paralyzing. However, do not get discouraged. Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-swelling preparations may be necessary to overcome this barrier, but the benefits of invigorating joints are far greater than the possible side effects of medication. If your joints are swollen and cause pain during exercise, you can reduce the intensity of the exercise or give it up for a while.
And rehabilitating
In rheumatic diseases, the so-called exercises in relieving (e.g. in water) and isometric exercises, which involve contracting the muscles without stretching them. We can perform them during classes under the supervision of a specialist, but also at home. Their intensity and type depends, among others, on on the severity of the disease, so the therapist should always decide on their choice.
We practice at home
Exercises recommended for people suffering from rheumatoid diseases are simple and can be done at home. For example:
1. Sitting on a chair, press your hands to your knees, flexing your hand muscles.
2. Place the towel on the back of your neck and pull at its ends.
3. While lying in a bathtub with warm water, gently move your hands (exercise for pain in the joints of the hands).
More briskly in the group
It is important that our physical activity is regular. If we have problems with being systematic, consider starting group exercises. Exercises that are becoming more and more popular in Poland – Nordic walking, tai-chi – may be a good idea for lazy people.
Nordic walking is a march with the use of special poles. The technique is easy and safe, and the walk strengthens virtually all muscle groups. For people suffering from rheumatic diseases, it is important that walking with poles, compared to traditional walking, relieves the joints and muscles and activates the shoulder girdle. It also helps in reducing unnecessary kilograms.
Tai-chi is a Far Eastern martial art. These seemingly gentle dance movements performed by the practitioners were formerly used for defense. Tai-chi exercises have a positive effect on the entire motor apparatus, improving the efficiency of muscles, joints and tendons. They also help to maintain a proper body weight. In addition to its benefits for the body, exercise also provides relaxation.
Text: Piotr Janczarek
Source: Domowe Kuracje, Let’s live longer