Osteoarthritis is a widespread condition which can affect any joint in the body. It is most likely to affect the joints that bear most of our weight, such as the knees and feet. Joints that we use a lot in everyday life, such as the joints of the hand, are also commonly affected.
It’s quite common to think that people with Osteoarthritis aren’t able to perform exercises, but this is because we don’t know what they can or cannot do.
Also, many people worry that exercising will increase their pain and may cause further joint damage. However, while resting painful joints may make them feel more comfortable at first, too much rest can increase stiffness.
As a trainer, we need to give clients with Osteoarthritis faith in us to demonstrate that they shouldn’t be afraid to use their joints. If pain makes it challenging to get started with exercise, you could advise your client to take a painkiller, such as paracetamol, beforehand. And if you feel your client has overdone things a bit, you might advise applying warmth to the painful joint – or if it is swollen, applying an ice pack may help.
If your client has not done much exercise for a while, you might want to get advice from a physiotherapist. They will be able to help you work out a programme that works for your client. The most important thing is to start gently and build up gradually.
Exercise is considered the most effective, non-drug treatment for reducing pain and improving movement in patients with Osteoarthritis. Multiple studies show that mild to moderate exercise is beneficial for people with arthritis. However everyone's circumstances are different, so discussing exercise with your doctor or physical therapist is essential. Together with your client’s health care team, you can design an exercise plan that is best for them.
If you’re still unsure of which exercises can help a client with Osteoarthritis, here are some basic examples of exercises you could include in their fitness program:
