Exercise is used as an adjunct in the treatment of osteoarthritis. This is because the exercise is important in strengthening the muscles around the knee and preventing development of stiffness from reduced range of movement at the joints.
There are studies clearly showing the benefit of exercise on joint health.
Knee arthritis is associated with severe knee pain which can inhibit many people from taking part in even the slightest of activities. But just like humans, not all exercises are made equal and some have been proven to be very knee friendly.
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List of some of the safe exercises for people with knee arthritis
1.Walking
Walking is a low impact activity that can help build endurance of the lower limbs but also help improve the heart health. the distance you walk can increase as you improve your strength.
2. Swimming
Swimming too is a low impact knee conditioning exercise
3. Biking
Biking is one of the knee friendly exercises. This is because in the process, it does not load the knees but encourages range of motion at the knee joints.
4. Strength training.
Strength training exercises helps maintain and build the muscle bulk. Muscle is important as it absorbs the energy transmitted through the knee joint.
5. Yoga
This is a flexibility activity. Aside from improving flexibility, other uses of yoga are strength training, improving coordination and balance plus trimming fat.
caution;
Have a discussion with your doctor before you start exercising to check your fitness level and also give you an appropriate fitness plan.
No exercise is the best. Aim for consistency and remember to consistently do something that you enjoy.
