Elderly complaining of arthritis pain may reduce it with mild exercise, says study

Zee Media Bureau

New York: Arthritis is a clear sign of poor bone health that approaches primarily as one starts ageing. It mainly affects the joints and people suffering from it complain of joint pain and stiffness.

Other symptoms may include redness, warmth, swelling, and decreased range of motion of the affected joints.

There are medications and physiotherapy to avoid aches and pains related to the condition, but a new study has suggested that mild exercise could help reduce arthritis pain in the elderly.

The study says that, low-impact exercise programme helps to decrease pain, improve mobility and enhance quality of life in older adults with arthritis and other muscle and joint conditions.

"Joints will often stiffen if not used and muscles will weaken if not exercised. Our bodies are meant to move, and inactivity leads to weakness and stiffness, and joints with arthritis often worsen with inactivity," said Theodore Fields, Managing Director of Rheumatology Faculty Practice Plan at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), US.

Participants performed chair and floor mat exercises using stretch bands and other gentle exercises. Chinese breathing techniques and meditation were also integrated into the programme.

"The study results are consistent with the experience of rheumatologists and with prior studies showing that exercise, even of mild degree, helps with pain. Getting people up and moving does appear to help with mood, pain and overall functioning," Fields added.

The study was presented at the American Public Health Association annual meeting.

(With IANS inputs)