ARTHIRTIS: RESISTANCE IS NOT FUTILE
Exercise Can Ease Pain
Although it may seem to be a contradiction, arthritic knees respond well to exercise. That's because exercise relieves stiffness and swelling, strengthens surrounding muscles, bones and cartilage, and improves joint flexibility and alignment, the University of Virginia Health System reports.
What kind of exercise is best? An Australian overview of clinical trials found resistance training to be very effective. These workouts included isometric exercise, resistance machines, free weights and other devices, such as elastic bands. But you might want to wear a knee brace to help prevent injury or keep from aggravating your condition.
There are several types, and the American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list to help you choose the right one for you:
Unloader (valgus) braces are recommended to reduce pain and improve function in certain patients who have osteoarthritis of the knees.
Functional braces can help protect an already injured knee from further damage.
Rehabilitative braces help stabilize knees after injury or surgery.
Prophylactic knee braces target protection during contact sports, including football.
Gentle massage can also relieve arthritic pain in knees and other affected joints. The Arthritis Foundation offers these safety tips:
Stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort while massaging the arthritic area.
Do not massage joints that are swollen or very painful.
Use lotion or massage oil on your skin.
If you use a menthol gel, make sure to wash it all off before you apply any heat to the area in order to avoid burns.
When you have a professional massage, make sure the clinician has experience with people who have arthritis.