Many people with arthritis don't exercise. The typical scenario is this: you begin to have pain, you stop doing certain activities in an effort to rest your joints and instead of feeling better, you begin to feel even worse. The increased pain and stiffness make you feel like doing even less, and the cycle continues until you limit your daily activity to the bare minimum. This lack of activity in turn can lead to increased pain and stiffness, weight gain and even depression.

In fact, exercise is a very important component of an overall treatment plan for patients with arthritis. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) website, "Exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness and increases flexibility, muscle strength, cardiac fitness, and endurance. It also helps with weight reduction and contributes to an improved sense of well-being."

So how do you get started? Most patients start with a visit to their doctor. Ask your doctor about starting an exercise program. In many instances, your doctor will refer you to a Physical Therapist. A licensed Physical Therapist can perform an evaluation to determine your specific needs, and work with you to achieve your personal goals.

Physical therapy treatment will usually consist of gentle range of motion exercises, stretching and light strengthening. Your therapist will teach you how to do these exercises correctly so you can continue on your own at home. Aerobic exercise is also an important component to your exercise program. Aerobic exercise is any activity that brings your heart rate into a designated target range for 30 minutes or more. Often the best, most gentle way of beginning an aerobic program is using water aerobics.

HPT can help you achieve your goals. Call today and ask about getting an evaluation for physical therapy and aquatic physical therapy.