Exercises Can Ease Arthritis Pain

Aerobic Exercise for Arthritis

For any adult -- including people with arthritis -- 30 minutes of exercise, at least three times a week, is advised. "But you can accumulate it in small amounts during the day," says Weil. "Start with 5 to 10 minutes, then increase slowly."

Walking, biking, swimming, tai chi, yoga, and water aerobics are good for arthritis, says Weil. Water exercise is especially ideal because of water's soothing warmth and buoyancy. It's a gentle way to exercise joints and muscles - plus it acts as resistance to help build muscle strength.

Spas and hot tubs are comforting and allow some gentle exercise. But one note of caution: Elderly people are more prone to becoming overheated, so soaking time in tubs and spas should be shorter. Water aerobics programs -- many especially for people with arthritis -- are very popular at indoor pools, Weil adds. Many are sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation.

In your everyday life, you can also work in some pain-relieving exercise: Wash the car, mow the lawn, vacuum the house, and window-shop at the mall. "While you're watching TV, walk around the room," Weil suggests. While it may not seem like much, small movements can help keep joints moving, plus you burn calories.

If any of these exercises cause pain, use ice on the joint, says Weil. A bag of frozen vegetables over a towel works great. If pain lasts more than one hour after exercise, then it was too strenuous. "You should either cut back, or speak to your doctor," he advises.