Exercise is essential for people with the joint inflammation known as arthritis. Increasing strength, flexibility and mobility is achieved through the repeated stretching and strengthening of muscles, which support the joints. For many arthritis pain sufferers, the task seems insurmountable.

Even the walk from the house to the car is unbearable. However, starting with aquatic exercises can prevent you from becoming completely immobile. Exercise can help you sleep better, make you feel more energized throughout the day, strengthen bones and muscle tissue, help you lose weight and give you a better self-opinion.

Many patients are asking, “How can I prevent the joint deformity associated with arthritis?” It’s bad enough that you’re suffering the pain on the inside, let alone exhibiting the unsightly bumps and crooked, protruding lumps associated with arthritic hands. One study (Scott J. Zashin, M.D., 1998) indicates that TNF Blockers, such as Enbrel, Remicade and Humira, are most effective at halting the progression of arthritis.

Researchers found that while 25% of patients on Methotrexate achieved clinical remission, 70% of the patients who did not respond to Methotrexate had success with the other three drugs. Of course, the drugs are far from a cure, but rather serve as a pain management tool for those who suffer most.

If you are afflicted with arthritic pain, then there are ways of exercising the joint(s) without injuring yourself. Range-of-motion exercises, like raising your arms over your head, rolling your shoulders in circles and stretching can be effective if done daily. Strengthening exercises, like light weight training will help build muscles, taking a load off strained joints.

Aerobic/endurance exercises improve overall fitness, controls weight and moves joints in natural motions, so consider walking, bike riding and swimming for 20 – 30 minutes/day, 3 times/week. The most important thing is to find something you like to do and regularly incorporate it into your life. If you question your motivation, then you may find a yoga or tai chi class to be the best pain management solution.

There are over 100 medical conditions known to cause the joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Many times, inflammation of the joints comes along with an injury, disease or other ailment as well.

For seniors health, it is imperative that you try your hardest to remain fully mobile. If you need drugs or a low impact exercise routine to help you get past that initial hurdle of chronic pain, then ask your doctor what kind of options are available to you.

Mike Selvon owns a number of niche portal. Please visit our portal for more great information on the joint deformity, and leave a comment at our arthritis treatment blog.