Patients with RA are encouraged to exercise to maintain flexibility in muscles and joints. Exercise does not cure the disease, but improves physical endurance and quality of life in patients.
Exercises include, stretching, regular day-to-day activities, ROM exercises, and strengthening. When the joints experience acute pain, it is advised to avoid exercising during that period. Patients with chronic pain are advised to swim, walk, and cycle regularly with adequate rest periods. Such exercise regimens increase the endurance of the patient and improve muscle flexibility. If the exercise creates an increase in stress, pain, fatigue, and swelling, the regimen has to be modified. Patients affected with arthritis should avoid lifting weights or climbing stairs. Each day, patients should move every joint to avoid rigidity developing in joints, muscles, and tendons.
Physiotherapists also educate patients on the techniques they need to adopt to maintain muscle movement with minimal pain. Rest is always essential for those undergoing arthritic pain. One must not strain and perform exercises during pain. It is preferable to sit and perform an activity than stand for prolonged periods. With appropriate exercise and care, patients with arthritis can lead a full, less painful, and active life.
