How do I know if I've got arthritis?
Arthritis - it's no fun having a sore joint! But rather than reminisce about our former days of mobility, let’s focus on the facts. It affects 3.5 million Aussies – that’s 15% of us! While there's no cure yet, managing symptoms is possible with exercise, weight loss and lifestyle changes; plus there are medications to help too. If you find yourself in pain or discomfort speak up... surgery could be an option if things get outta hand but its always best to tackle it with exercise, nutrition and pain management first!
How do I know if I've got arthritis?
Arthritis is a far-reaching condition, impacting people of any age, gender or nationality - with women most affected (18% vs. 13%). It becomes even more common in older generations: 48% over 50 years old suffer from osteoarthritis and 2% have RA. Unfortunately, these individual symptoms can affect an individual's quality of life by causing disability and physical limitations as well as emotional distress – resulting in significant economic costs for Australia at $23.9 billion/year! Of course, the exact experience varies from person to person but some common indicators are joint stiffness & pain; redness & swelling around joints; low energy levels; tenderness when touched etc...
What are the risks to my health if I have arthritis?
Take it from the experts: arthritis isn't just a joint issue. Unfortunately, people with this condition are more likely to be inactive and overweight– not to mention have other chronic conditions like heart disease or mental health issues too! Some types of arthritis can even lead to symptoms in different organs such as your kidneys, nervous system or skin; think painful ulcers and vision disturbances. The takeaway? Taking care of yourself is an important part of managing any type of serious illness – especially if you're one among three out of every four Australians with multiple health problems associated with their arthritic pain.
What can I do to prevent arthritis?
When it comes to arthritis, prevention is definitely better than cure! While the exact causes are still a matter of debate among experts, some well-known risk factors--like inactivity or unhealthy eating habits--are sources we can control. So take charge now: get healthy and stay active by enjoying regular physical activity and following a nutritious diet. Also don't forget those other key contributors like maintaining your ideal weight range and refraining from smoking - being mindful of these things will make all the difference when preventing joint pain down the line! Plus earlier detection means you'll be able to start treatment sooner rather than later; that way you won’t let aches & pains stop living life fully!
How can physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology help with Arthritis?
Exercise - it's medicine for your bones! Whether you suffer from arthritis or are just trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, physiotherapists and exercise physiologists can help keep your joints moving and active. Your therapist will work with you to create an individualised exercise plan designed specifically for YOUR needs. Plus they'll give tips on joint protection so that nothing stands in the way of keeping fit and having fun!
Strengthening exercise involves using weights, resistance bands, or body weight to increase muscle strength. Stronger muscles help support and protect joints making it easier to stay mobile and active.
Flexibility exercise involves stretches and gently moving the joint to reduce stiffness.
Aerobic exercise is any exercise that increases your heart rate and maintains general fitness and heart health.
Hydrotherapy is strengthening, aerobic and flexibility exercises completed in a pool, which is often heated. It can be beneficial because water supports the weight of your body, reducing the impact on your joints. Water can also provide greater resistance, further strengthening your muscles.
Ready to get started on your fitness journey? It’s important you take it slow and steady - getting expert advice from a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist ensures that the exercise routine is tailored just for you. With regular commitment, establishing physical activity into your daily life can ultimately reap some amazing rewards!
Exercise and Pain
Working out is often the last thing on our minds when joints are feeling particularly painful and achy, but exercise can actually be just what your body needs to ease that discomfort. When we move less, arthritis causes stiffness which adds more pain in the long run - so don't let it get you down! It's important to know where your limits lie; there will likely be some degree of uncomfortable pain as part of exercising with an arthritic joint or muscle, however if this exceeds normal levels reduce activity level accordingly. With regular movement comes relief – no matter how much effort it requires up front.
How long will it be until I start seeing a reduction in my pain?
Exercise can be a tricky business when it comes to arthritis pain - no two people experience the same level of relief! But don't let that discourage you. With some commitment and regular exercising, as prescribed by your physiotherapist or exercise physiologist, you'll discover improved strength in no time! And with these gains come lessened levels of discomfort. Stick with it-your future self will thank you for taking those steps today!
