How Can Exercise Be Used To Treat Osteoarthritis, And Are Certain Types Of Exercises Better Than Others?

Dr. Joseph Guettler answers the question: 'Exercises For Osteoarthritis?'

ByABC News
April 1, 2008, 4:04 PM

— -- Question: How can exercise be used to treat osteoarthritis, and are certain types of exercises better than others?

Answer: Osteoarthritis involves a vicious cycle. It begins with cartilage injury and degeneration. That leads to inflammation and pain. The inflammation and pain result in stiffness. So when we think of exercise to avoid and treat osteoarthritis, we think in terms of low impact activities that also promote motion. Exercises that I like include walking, swimming, cross-country skiing, and things that have a smooth fluid motion but avoid the impact.

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